How Safe is Mouthwash for Kids?

When it comes to kids, dental health unravels a bagful of questions for parents. While consulting a pediatric dentist, a common question anxious parents ask is about using mouthwash: Is mouthwash good for children? Most adults would vouch for mouthwash. For some, it is even a quick and “emergency” substitute for brushing during a hectic day. But how far can one rely on mouthwash for the dental health of kids? In our previous blog, we explained 5 ways to make brushing fun with a pediatric dentist in Monrovia. However, read on to discover how safe mouthwash is for kids.

4 Benefits of Using Mouthwash:

The multi-faceted benefits of mouthwash include:

1. Prevents Tooth Decay

2. Fights Bad Breath

3. Extra Cavity Protection

4. Boosts the Effects of Brushing and Flossing

Is Mouthwash Safe for Kids?

Though mouthwash would be handy and hygienic for grown-ups, dentists near you in Monrovia would agree that it may not always be safe for children.

Here are the reasons why:

1. As per the American Dental Association, children under 6 years of age should not use mouthwash. Most mouthwashes for adults are high in alcohol content. As a strong antimicrobial agent that kills bacteria in the mouth, alcohol in mouthwash is perfectly safe for adults. But it can be harmful for kids, as they tend to swallow most of the liquid while swishing. The muscle reflexes and fine motor control of young children may not be fully developed. So, they may not properly spit out the mouthwash and are very likely to swallow it. It is better to refrain from letting little ones use mouthwash.

2. Most mouth rinses contain fluoride. Though consuming fluoride could help your child develop strong, healthy teeth, as per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), children below 8 years must not consume more than 1 mg of fluoride per day. Orthodontists in Monrovia recommend mild, child-friendly mouthwashes for kids who are wearing braces. Continuous exposure to the chemical at the early stages of tooth development can cause fluorosis, which leads to unpleasant spots or streaks on the teeth.

Pick the Right Mouthwash for Kids With a Pediatric Dentist in Monrovia:

If you are keen to let your children get used to mouthwash once they turn 6, then get them a mild, alcohol-free mouthwash. Colgate Phos-Flur OrthoDefense Anticavity Mouth Rinse or ACT Anticavity Mouthwash with a slight flavor are good for that extra layer of protection against white spots without burning the mouth. Consult with your pediatric dentist in Monrovia to select the right mouthwash for your kid.

Conclusion:

The appropriate dental treatment for your children would mean having a children's dentist in Monrovia to guide you through the dos and don’ts of dealing with your kids’ oral health. At Arcadia Pediatric Dental Practice & Orthodontics, you will find one of the most experienced and child-friendly pediatric dentists and staff members who can clarify all your doubts and anxieties regarding caring for your kids' teeth. Visit our dentistry in Monrovia before choosing mouthwash for your kid, or call us at 626-445-6666 to arrange an appointment immediately.