No one wants to be known for having smelly breath. That's why adults often use a minty rinse to freshen their breath and keep their mouths clean. As a parent, you want your child to have good breath, too, so you may be wondering, is using mouthwash good or bad for your child?

 

Ways That Mouthwash Can Benefit Your Child

Using a mouth rinse is not bad, but it will only be good for your child if they actually need it. If your dentist advises you to add it to your child's oral care, it will:

• Clean areas that even floss can't reach

• Helps remove food in areas a brush can't touch

• Protect against future gum disease and tooth decay

• Protect from bacteria that cause cavities

• Strengthen enamel if fluoride is included in the rinse 
  
   

Don't be disappointed if your child's dentist doesn't recommend a mouth rinse, though. It just means that with a good oral hygiene routine, your child can still enjoy these benefits without needing the extra step.

 

Safety Tips for Children Using Mouthwash

Use the following tips to help your child rinse their mouth out safely:

 

• Show them how to measure and use the rinse

• Stress the importance of them not swallowing it

• Store the mouth rinse where young children can't reach it

• Don't let your child rinse alone until they can do so responsibly
  
   

To avoid the risk of young children swallowing the rinse while cleaning their mouths, the American Dental Association discourages its use by children under the age of 6, unless your dentist recommends it.

 

Ask A Dentist If Mouthwash Is Needed 

Before adding mouthwash to your child's cleaning routine, have a dentist examine their teeth and make the proper recommendations. At Pediatric Dental Group, we have a team of professional dentists who are ready and able to help you. Contact us online today or call our offices in Honolulu and Lihue to schedule an appointment.