The Essential Guide to Kids Mouthwash: When, Why, and What's Best
Think mouthwash is only for adults who want to avoid bad breath? Guess again! You might be surprised that mouthwash can boost your kids’ oral health. Kids can use mouthwash? Yes, as your Houston, TX, pediatric dentist, Dr. Kristi Parker and the Park Dentistry team can confidently say that mouthwash for kids is something to consider.
Let’s talk about
kids and mouthwash in more detail so you can understand how it fits into your
kids’ oral health routine.
At What Age Can Kids Start Using Mouthwash?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that kids can start using a fluoride mouthwash at six years old. Why not any younger? Kids younger than six might not know how to swish and rinse their mouths properly, accidentally swallowing too much mouthwash. We don't want that!
Starting mouthwash too early can also lead to kids getting too much fluoride too soon.
But isn’t fluoride good for teeth?
Yes, fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, but in this case, too much of a good thing isn’t so good. Too much fluoride has the potential to cause fluorosis — white or brown spots or streaks on adult teeth. Fortunately, while this discoloration affects the look of teeth, it doesn’t harm them.
So our guideline as your
Houston, TX, pediatric dentist? When it comes to when kids should start, say no to mouthwash for your toddlers; Dr. Parker and the team at Park Dentistry agree with the ADA and say it's best to stick to good ‘ol brushing and flossing until age six.
Why Mouthwash For Kids is a Game-Changer
As mentioned, mouthwash is an effective tool for fighting cavities and maintaining overall gum health. In fact, one study with school-aged participants showed that those who used fluoride mouthwash had 50% fewer cavities than those who didn’t.
Think of mouthwash for your kids as an extra measure against tooth decay – it reaches those sneaky spots at the gum line, between teeth and in the back that brushing might miss. Mouthwash also helps clean bacteria off the tongue. And if your kid wears braces, mouthwash provides extra cleaning power around brackets where plaque and food debris can hide.
Picking the Right One: Fluoride Mouthwash For the Win
You stare at the many options on the drugstore shelves and wonder, “Which one is the best mouthwash for my kids?” If you haven’t guessed it yet, fluoride is the first ingredient to look for in a kids' mouthwash. The best mouthwash for your kids should also be alcohol-free and, of course, feature a kid-friendly flavor so they’ll have fun using it.
If your child wears braces, look for mouthwashes with soothing ingredients that can help with discomfort and healing. Many mouthwash options for kids are also free of artificial dyes and artificial sweeteners. Some even have xylitol, a sweetener that helps prevent cavities!
And what isn’t necessary in a kids mouthwash? Skip mouthwashes with whitening formulations or harsh ingredients.
How To Use Kids Mouthwash
Once your kids reach the age when they can safely use mouthwash, your pediatric dentist in Houston, TX, suggests supervising them to ensure they’re using it safely and effectively. Here’s how your child should use mouthwash in their oral hygiene routine:
- Brush for two minutes and floss the teeth
- Use 2-5 teaspoons of mouthwash, depending on the size of the mouth or product directions
- Swish for about 30 seconds
- Spit all of it out!
- Don’t rinse with water
- Done! Easy-peasy!
Bringing You High-Quality Pediatric Oral Care in Houston, TX
Bottom line, introduce mouthwash when your kids are at least six years old (aka, mouthwash is not for toddlers) to help them maintain healthy, happy smiles. Choose one that has fluoride and use it after brushing and flossing.
Have any more questions about mouthwash for your kids? Ask us at your little one’s next checkup and cleaning appointment. If you don’t have an appointment booked,
schedule a visit
with Dr. Parker, your Houston, TX, board-certified pediatric dentist. You’ll enjoy a friendly team and high-quality pediatric dental care in a fun, relaxing setting.
