I have always been on the lookout for a suitable mouthwash to combat dry mouth, particularly given my frequent bouts of cold, sore throat, or when I’m on certain medications that can cause oral dryness. In my quest, I stumbled upon Biotène – a hydrating mouthwash that emerged as a suitable candidate for my nighttime routine. But this wasn’t my first encounter with the product. In fact, I have personally used this mouthwash in the past, and this review is specifically focused on their newest version. Below is my honest review of the latest Biotène mouthwash, offering a detailed account of its positives and negatives from my hands-on experience.
Ingredients and Formulation
The significant active component in Biotène’s rinse is vegetable glycerin, a natural substance derived from plants. However, the product has undergone changes from its original American version to its current Canadian incarnation, distributed by GSK in New Jersey.
Old ingredients:
- Purified Water, Propylene Glycol, Xylitol, Poloxamer 407, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Sodium Benzoate, Flavor (Peppermint Oil), Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Benzoic Acid, Disodium Phosphate, Zinc Gluconate, Lactoferrin, Lysozyme, Lactoperoxidase, Potassium Thiocyanate, Aloe Vera Gel, Calcium Lactate, Glucose Oxidase.
New ingredients:
- Purified Water, Propylene Glycol, Xylitol, Poloxamer 407, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Sodium Benzoate, Sorbitol, Glycerine, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Flavor, Sodium Phosphate, Disodium Phosphate.
One major difference is the taste, which I credit to the altered recipe. Noteworthy absentees include ingredients like zinc, calcium, aloe vera, potassium thiocyanate, and the distinctive “Bio-Active Enzyme Protection.” The enzymes were a selling point in the initial formulation, but their absence in the new version is glaring.
Furthermore, xylitol is no longer the sole sweetener in this rinse. The addition of sorbitol – an artificial sweetener which many, including me, prefer to avoid – is another significant change. Yet, it retains one massive plus – being alcohol-free making it safe for children and individuals recovering from alcohol addiction.
Packaging and Volume
The packaging Biotene provides is quite impressive. I can vouch that it is secure and arrives quickly without leakage. But don’t get caught off guard by its enormous size. The bottle’s design takes a bit of getting used to. You need to exercise caution with pouring since squeezing the bottle will likely lead to a mess.
And while there’s no included dosage cup, the ‘squirt-top’ simplifies the application process. Transferring a smaller amount into a more compact bottle for daily use is also an option. Biotène also offers mouth spray for those in need of quick refreshment options.
In terms of quantity, you can choose from three size variants: 8oz, 16oz, and the massive 33.8oz one, which, unsurprisingly, is the one I chose.
Flavor and Texture
Based on my experience, the Biotène mouth rinse offers an agreeable, refreshing taste. There are distinctive flavors: Fresh Mint (blue label) and Gentle Mint (green label). I strongly prefer the Fresh Mint, appreciating its mildness yet distinct flavor.
Neither the smell nor the taste are overpowering, and you can enjoy a minty freshness without any burning sensation – a massive win for me. But it does leave an aftertaste, which might not appeal to everyone.
Another unique characteristic of Biotène is its consistency – an intermediate between a gel and liquid. This thickness contributes to the effectiveness against dry mouth, initially unusual but becomes customary subsequently.
Performance and Efficiency
The typical dose of Biotène is around a tablespoon swished around or gargled for about 30 seconds before spitting out. In my routine, it alleviated my dry mouth for a reasonable duration, although if your mouth is extremely dry, you might not find sufficient solace.
Whether my dry mouth was due to medication side effects or nerve-wracking meetings, consistent Biotène use brought the needed moisture. It’s also been incredibly helpful during travels to drier regions.
Admittedly, more effort is required to sustain fresh breath for someone with medicine-induced dry mouth, but I can say it made a significant difference. Also, combining it with xylitol chewing gum as part of my pre-bed routine has contributed greatly to overnight dry mouth relief. Lastly, it soothes some of the discomfort assciated with braces.
Pricing and Value for Money
Pricewise, Biotène presents excellent value for money, particularly the 33 oz bottle, which lasted much longer than expected and only cost me $10. I scored it off Amazon for the same price I’d usually pay for a 16 oz bottle at the grocery store.
Final Verdict
While achieving fresher breath and healthier gums does involve regular flossing and brushing, Biotène Mouthwash has been a laudable addition to my oral hygiene routine, particularly in combatting dry mouth. Although the formula has changed and presents some drawbacks, it might not be perfect, but it greatly assists in alleviating dry mouth and consequently improving oral hygiene. Therefore, I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone suffering from a similar condition.
Related Product Comparisons
Other Options to Consider
- TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse
- SmartMouth Zinc Activated Mouthwash
- CloSYS Non-Irritating Mouthwash
