Should Kids Use Mouthwash?

It is the concern of every parent to take care of his or her child and give him or her a bright healthy smile. You make them brush their teeth before they go to sleep, you motivate them to floss and you take them to the dentist to get routine cleanings. But what about mouthwash? Most parents ask themselves whether their children ought to use it and when is the best time to begin using it.

Your reliable tooth cleaning center in Hoboken, Smile Wellness Hoboken, has realized that it can be very confusing with all the products and information available to take care of the oral health of children. We are going to learn all we need to know about mouthwash in kids including its advantages and safety management along with the selection of the right mouthwash to be used by your child.

The Relation of Mouthwash to Oral Health.

Mouthwash is not a replacement option of brushing or flossing but it can be of great assistance in oral hygiene. In adults, it helps to decrease plaque, to freshen the mouth and to kill bacteria which cause gum disease. In the case of children, the benefits also can be similar, but they have to be used properly and at the right age.
The mouth of a child is still forming and the oral hygiene habits are building. This implies that premature introduction of mouthwash may at other times be harmful than beneficial particularly when the child is not ready to use it in a safe manner.

At What Age Can Children Begin Using Mouthwash?

The American Dental Association (ADA) commonly suggests the introduction of the use of the mouthwash at about 6 years or above. Why 6? Since this is about the time when most children can reasonably swish and spit without swallowing.

Consumption of mouthwash, particularly those with fluoride or alcohol can result in stomach problems or overexposure of fluoride, which in turn can be transferred to the child's developing teeth.

Here is a simple guideline:
2-5 Years: Continue brushing with pea sized fluoride toothpaste with supervision. Mouthwash should not be recommended.
6-12 years old: It is possible to introduce alcohol-free and child-safe mouthwash in case your child is able to spit and swish correctly.
Ages 12 years and above: Teenagers may use adult mouthwash products as recommended by the dentist.

If you are uncertain that your child is ready, you should ask your dentist when they have their next teeth cleaning appointment in Hoboken. They are able to give advice depending on the development of the teeth of your child.

Advantages of Mouthwash in Children.

Mouthwash has the potential to provide the following advantages to the oral health of children when used in a proper way:

1. Extra Cavity Protection
   Certain fluoride gels in the form of rinses may be used to make enamel stronger and prevent cavities, particularly in children who are likely to develop tooth decay.
2. Improved Gum Health
   Mouthwash will help in decreasing bacteria and build up of plaque that might not be removed by brushing and flossing thus helping in maintaining healthier gums.
3. Fresh Breath Confidence
   Children particularly pre-teen children may at times be insecure with bad breath. Mild, minty, flavored mouthwash can make them feel more confident.
4. Encouragement and Fun for Oral Hygiene.
   Oral care can be made more enjoyable by having colorful bottles and flavors that appeal to children for example bubblegum or mild mint to help those who dislike brushing.

How to Select the Right Mouthwash for Your Child.

Not every single mouthwash is created equal and children require formulated products for their age and sensitivity. Some of the points to consider include:

• Alcohol-Free: When rinsing, always use alcohol-free solutions so that burning is not experienced and the risk of being ingested.
• Fluoride-Based (Optional): In case your child is prone to cavities, fluoride mouthwash will protect their enamel, but it must be introduced with the permission of your dentist.
• ADA Seal of Acceptance: This will guarantee that the product is effective and safe according to the standards of the ADA.
• Kid-Friendly Tastes: Find kid-friendly flavors that are mild so that the experience becomes a pleasant one.

How to Teach Children to Use Mouthwash Safely.

It is equally important to use a mouthwash properly as it is the right one. Simple steps that you may follow with your child are:

• Demonstrate First: Make them know how to measure the correct amount (it is normally one capful) and how to swish without swallowing.
• Supervise All the Time: Younger kids have to be supervised because you have to make sure they are able to spit out the mouthwash.
• Time It Right: Encourage your child to swish for about 30 seconds then spit.
• Do Not Rinse with Water: Your child should not rinse his or her mouth as soon as he or she has spit so that the fluoride works.
• Once a Day Is Enough: Since excessive fluoride is not good, it is better to use the mouthwash once daily, right before going to bed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with good intentions, there are a couple of mistakes that parents may make in introducing mouthwash. Avoid the following:

• Kids Start Early: Wait until they can confidently spit.
• Selecting Adult Mouthwash: These are usually filled with alcohol and strong tastes that could not be used by children.
• Replacing Brushing with Rinsing: Mouthwash is never supposed to replace brushing and flossing, it is just an additional measure for a cleaner and healthy mouth.
• Not Visiting the Dentist: Your child's dentist will be able to decide whether they need to use a mouthwash or only brush their teeth and visit a professional dentist in Hoboken.

When Mouthwash is not a Necessity.

Mouthwash may not be necessary to many young children with healthy brushing habits. Professional teeth cleaning in Hoboken, brushing twice a day, and flossing may give great protection against cavities and gum problems.

Mouthwash would be more useful to children who:

• Wears braces or orthodontic appliances.
• Are cavity or plaque prone.
• Bad breath problems 
• Has trouble flossing or brushing.

Your dentist will advise you on what will work best for  your child's unique smile.

Make an Appointment at Smile Wellness Hoboken

We believe in creating an environment where we help families in Hoboken to have a bright and healthy smile. You may have some questions about introducing mouthwash or you  require a regular check up to the dentist in Hoboken, whatever the case, our friendly staff will provide the best care and guidance to patients of all ages.

Book your family with Smile Wellness Hoboken to get them treated to a dental cleaning either by calling us or making your booking online.