Is Mouthwash Safe For Children?

While flossing and brushing are mostly enough for maintaining good oral hygiene for kids. Mouthwash, however, is an extra step towards uplifting your child’s oral health, especially if it is child-friendly. If you use a mouthwash, kids will likely inquire about it if they have noticed you while rinsing. They are sometimes curious and want to try out themselves.

It is always recommended to talk with your dentist about a mouthwash suitable for your kid that is in accordance with his dental needs. Moreover, this short guideline will facilitate you as a parent to know whether mouthwash is safe for children or not. So, let’s begin.

Is Mouthwash Safe For Children?

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), kids under six are not advised to use mouthwash. This is due to two specific reasons. First, their permanent teeth are still developing, and too much fluoride exposure creates a condition known as “fluorosis.” Fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that causes the teeth to change their natural look by creating faint white markings. Second, mouthwashes contain ingredients like fluoride and alcohol, toxic if swallowed. Young children are mostly not equipped to spit appropriately; therefore, mouthwashes are usually not recommended for children under the age of 6.

Older kids aged 6-12 can be given mouthwash only if they understand that they need to spit it out. However, it is better to refrain your child from mouthwash if under 8. ADA states that children under 8 are at high risk of developing fluorosis as their teeth are still forming. Mouthwash should only be given to kids if the dentist approves it. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to know which mouthwash is best for your child.

Valuable Tips for Starting Your Kids with Mouthwash

Practice Spitting and Swishing Beforehand

Make your child learn the art of rinsing with and spitting out with water so that he can use mouthwash with ease.

Supervise Your Child While He Uses the Mouthwash:

Supervise the first couple of mouthwashes to ensure that your child is not swallowing it. When kids drink mouthwash, it might cause diarrhea, interfere with breathing, cause dizziness, etc. Child-friendly mouthwashes usually do not cause any severe disturbance. However, your child must learn not to swallow the mouthwash to be on a safer side.

Keep Mouthwash Out of Reach of Children:

Children have a curious nature, and they might get confused about the purpose of mouthwash. Therefore, it is best to keep mouthwash in areas where kids cannot reach. Also, teach your kid about the purpose of mouthwash and what happens if anyone consumes it. It is better to stay with your kid while he uses mouthwash.

Final Thoughts

Mouthwash boosts the effects of brushing and flossing. It gives the feeling of fresh breath that adds to the quality of life and ensures an extra cleaning job. Mouthwash is usually safe for kids above 6. However, it should only be given in consultation with your dentist.

Contact your kids’ dentist in Stockton, Dr. Sajjad Rizvi D.D.S. at Happy Kids Dental, today to learn more about how you can help soothe teething infants.

Resource:

The Prevention Of Tooth Decay

*Neither this nor any other content in this media is meant to prescribe, recommend, or prevent any treatment or procedure. We highly recommend that you get the advice of a qualified dentist or other medical practitioners regarding your specific dental condition.