Cetylpyridinium chloride? Yes, please.

Many months ago, I was rolling my cart down the “teeth aisle” at the grocery store and steeling quick glances at the rows of whitening products sitting on shelves. I’d be the first to admit that my teeth are not perfect, thanks to my stubbornness to avoid braces at all cost. I mean, my teeth are alright. They form a general “U” shape in the mouth and seem to do a splendid job mashing and tearing. Good enough.

I decided I was in the market for some new mouthwash. I mean, I didn’t think TOO much about picking out a blue-green bottle… but just as I was reaching for the standard Listerine, I saw something.

A blue bottle labeled Crest Pro-Health Rinse. It looked very business-like, with a proud line that said “Alcohol Free” right on the front. Hmm. And just as effective as Listerine, but without the burning? Into the cart you go.

As soon as I got home, I poured some of that fantastic space-age liquid into a cup. I rinsed, felt pleased that it was so comfortable, and spit.

There were BLUE FLAKES. All over the sink and even some between teeth. I felt uncomfortable, like I had just spit while talking. And maybe a little embarrassed that this mess came out of my mouth.

But not to worry, says Crest!

I notice blue specks in my sink after I spit out the rinse. What are these?
The active ingredient in Crest Pro-Health, CPC, as well as the blue color can bind to bacteria and specks in your mouth, making them more visible when you spit into the sink. This is a sign that the product is working and is not harmful. Some consumers find that running the sink before expectorating the rinse helps prevent the blue debris from sticking.

Cetylpyridinium chloride. That’s why my sink is full of tiny blue pieces.

February 8, 2006

Posted in cogitations.