Always check the ingredients on your mouthwash bottle and look for germ-fighting ingredients that prevent gum disease, like LISTERINE Teeth & Gum Defence mouthwash (which has eucalyptol, menthol, methyl salicylate and thymol — four essential oils that are clinically proven to fight germs that cause gum problems). It also contains fluoride to prevent cavities. Listerine Teeth & Gum Defence is clinically proven to give you healthier gums and stronger teeth in 2 weeks! Using antibacterial mouthwash regularly will fight bacteria that can cling to your gums and form plaque. When plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar.