Lawsuits allege Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash, marketed to prevent plaque and gingivitis, caused teeth staining and accuse Procter & Gamble of failing to warn consumers and misleading marketing.
| Complete Date | Case | Citation | Court | Short Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 2009 | Mark Rossman vs. Procter & Gamble | – | U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Michigan | Rossman claimed the mouthwash stained his teeth brown and accused P&G of knowing and not warning consumers. Dismissed in 2012. |
| 2015 | Multiple plaintiffs vs. Procter & Gamble | – | U.S. District Court, Western District of Missouri | Judge allowed a class-action lawsuit to proceed, alleging widespread staining and misleading marketing. Ongoing. |
Allegations:
- Staining: Plaintiffs claim the mouthwash caused tooth staining, despite no warning on the label.
- Misleading Marketing: Lawsuits argue P&G downplayed the staining risk and overstated the product’s benefits.
Procter & Gamble’s Response:
- Rare Occurrence: P&G maintains staining is uncommon and caused by individual factors like oral hygiene and diet.
- Clear Warnings: The company argues product labels mention potential staining.
Impact:
- Consumer Awareness: Lawsuits raised awareness of potential mouthwash staining and increased scrutiny of P&G’s marketing.
- Ongoing Case: The class-action lawsuit is ongoing, awaiting a final outcome.
Additional Notes:
- While the Rossman case was dismissed, the ongoing class-action lawsuit suggests the issue persists.
- P&G continues to deny wrongdoing and maintains the product’s safety and effectiveness.
- Consumers are advised to read product labels carefully and consult dentists with concerns about mouthwash use.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal matters, consult a qualified professional.
