You want your child to have the best dental health possible, which means that you watch their dental hygiene carefully. While you are overseeing how well your children are brushing and flossing, you may be wondering if you should introduce mouthwash into their dental routine. Here are some guidelines so that you will know when your child may be ready for mouthwash and what you should look for in mouthwash for them.
Is There an Age Limit for Mouthwash?
If you are thinking about trying mouthwash with your children, you may want to consider their ages. The American Dental Association recommends that you wait to introduce mouthwash to your children until they are school-age, which is usually around six years old. There are several reasons why waiting until they are a bit older is a good idea. First, young children are more likely to swallow mouthwash rather than spit it out. Also, it may be difficult to find a mouthwash that your toddler will actually be able to spit out without a fuss. There is also a danger that you may overfluoridate their teeth. If children get too much fluoride, they may begin to develop spots on their teeth, which is called fluorosis.
What Kinds of Mouthwash Should I Look For?
Adults who are buying mouthwash for their school-aged children have many options. If your children are in elementary school, your priority is fluoride because it will help keep their teeth strong and healthy. You may want to look for sample bottles of mouthwash for them to try so they can get a taste they like. If they do not like the taste of the mouthwash you pick, they are unlikely to use it.
Also, you will want to look for a mouthwash that is alcohol-free. Children do not need alcohol in their mouthwash, and luckily, there are plenty of alcohol-free options available. If you are not sure which kind of mouthwash to get, you can always look for the seal of the American Dental Association. That way, you will know the mouthwash is safe and effective. Not sure if your child is ready for mouthwash? We can help. Reach out to our office today to schedule an appointment.
Dentist Pembroke Pines, FL | Everglades Family Dental At Everglades Family Dental we want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, beautiful smiles, and make you feel comfortable. Everglades Family Dental - Dr. Thomas Crowgey, 16024 Pines Blvd, Suite 106, Pembroke Pines, FL 33027 ^ (754) 764-0465 ^ evergladesfamilydental.com ^ 1/22/2025 ^ Key Phrases: dentist Pembroke Pines ^
You want your child to have the best dental health possible, which means that you watch their dental hygiene carefully. While you are overseeing how well your children are brushing and flossing, you may be wondering if you should introduce mouthwash into their dental routine. Here are some guidelines so that you will know when your child may be ready for mouthwash and what you should look for in mouthwash for them.