Is Mouthwash Safe For Kids?

While mouthwash is an important part of any adult’s at-home oral hygiene routine, many parents questions whether or not it’s safe for children. If your child is older than six years old, the answer is yes. Kids younger than six should stay away from mouthwash because they still aren’t able to swish and spit at these ages, and may accidentally swallow the mouthwash.

Mouthwash is great at getting rid of the germs and bacteria in the mouth that cause plaque, gingivitis, and cavities. It also helps to freshen and improve breath! Once you feel that your child is able to use mouthwash correctly, it’s important to pick the right kind of mouthwash. Make sure the mouthwash you choose is alcohol-free and also contains sodium fluoride (which will help to prevent cavities). There are a few brands of mouthwash made specifically for children. These are the brands we’d recommend using.

When added to an already existing dental hygiene routine, mouthwash can provide just another way to help your kids maintain dental health. Another great use for mouthwash is as a plaque remover for those currently receiving orthodontic treatment. This is because the mouthwash can reach the plaque building up between braces.

Kids & Mouthwash – Tips

Below are a couple of helpful tips when adding mouthwash to your child’s oral hygiene routine:

• Ditch the super minty flavors and opt for a fun flavor instead. Many kids’ mouthwash includes flavors like cherry and bubblegum.
• Supervise your child when he or she is first learning how to floss. This will ensure that no mouthwash is being swallowed accidentally.
• Make sure to let your child know that mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing and flossing.

Here at Coastal Periodontics, we believe that the earlier we teach our children good oral hygiene habits, the healthier their teeth will be through their whole lives! To make an appointment at our Portsmouth, NH periodontal office, please call us today!