Is Mouthwash Safe for Children? What You Need to Know

 

Using a brand name mouthwash is a great way to keep your gums healthy and prevent the development of gingivitis, making it an essential part of a standard oral hygiene routine. And when it comes to teaching your children proper oral hygiene, starting early is always good. However, not all mouthwashes are suitable for children, especially mouthwashes that contain alcohol. That’s why it’s important to ensure that you choose the right mouthwash for your child. Here’s what you need to know about buying a child-friendly mouthwash.

 

Keep Mouthwash Away from Children Under 6

The American Dental Association recommends that children under 6 years of age should completely refrain from using mouthwash. Young children may not have developed the fine motor control and muscle reflexes necessary to properly spit out mouthwash, and children under 6 are very likely to swallow it. Instead of mouthwash, encourage your child to drink lots of water, and make sure your child eats lots of fresh produce like cucumbers and grapes. These and other produce with high water content increase saliva, which helps to keep your child’s mouth clean.

 

Alcohol-Free Mouthwash is Ideal for Older Children

Due to the fluoride content in mouthwash, it’s typically recommended that your children refrain from using mouthwash prior to age 7. When you do start teaching your children to use mouthwash, you’ll want to ensure they understand that it’s a rinse, not a beverage. Have your children practice the rinse-and-spit routine with a small amount of water before moving on to mouthwash.

When you do start giving your children mouthwash, you’ll want to ensure you give them the proper kind. Many adult mouthwashes are alcohol-based, as alcohol is a strong antimicrobial agent that can kill bacteria in the mouth. Alcohol-based mouthwash is perfectly safe for use by adults, but can be dangerous for children. Your child will more than likely swallow at least some mouthwash by accident, which can be problematic if the mouthwash contains alcohol. Instead, opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash.

 

Supervision and Storage: Making Mouthwash Safe and Fun for Kids

Storing your child’s mouthwash properly is essential to ensuring your child uses it safely. When not in use, keep your child’s mouthwash in a locked cupboard or on a high shelf that only you can reach. Young children may not understand how to use mouthwash properly if you’re not beside them showing them how, and they may even believe mouthwash to be a beverage. Keeping your children’s mouthwash out of reach will ensure they don’t accidentally ingest any.

When teaching your child how to use mouthwash, make sure you closely observe their behavior to ensure they don’t swallow the mouthwash or use it as a substitute to brushing and flossing. Your child may not like using mouthwash at first. You can make it fun for your children by choosing a fun container. Many children’s mouthwashes come in containers adorned with characters from popular Disney properties, like Olaf from Frozen.

If your child likes sports, you can turn using mouthwash into a game by using a stopwatch to see if your child can keep using the mouthwash until the timer goes off.

Regularly using mouthwash is one of the best ways to prevent gingivitis and keep your child’s gums healthy. There are lots of child-friendly mouthwashes on the market, and with a little creativity, you can make using mouthwash fun for your child. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Badie, call Badie Dental at (520) 433-9800.

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Jennifer P.

I have been going to Dr Badie for about 3+ years for my cleaning. All his staff are AWESOME! Everyone is so nice and professional. I had my cleaning and filling done, and it was painless. Thank you all for making my teeth beautiful as always!

Michele M.

Dr Badie is the best dentist in Tucson, I come from Show Low, Arizona to have my dental work done. Dr Badie is currently finishing up an implant and takes out the time to explain the process to me. I can tell he loves dentistry and his passion for his work shows! I will never go to another dentist!!!!

Shelly J.

I am extremely petrified of dentists. Dr Badie was so patient with me, even when I was being a very hard patient. He gave me something to help with my anxiety. I had 8 teeth pulled at once. No pain whatsoever. Even the next day. No swelling, no pain. Even though I will still be scared every appointment, I know he can be trusted to be patient and gentle every step of the way.

Sabastian R.

Today I went in for my first check up.The whole staff was amazing. Dentist Badie really does care. He took his time with me to develop a plan with my teeth. I felt such a relief when he said that my teeth can be saved. Now myself I do not have insurance but the way they broke everything down made it super affordable for me. This place Is definitely worth it.

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