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Are mouthwashes safe for kids? It is a common question regarding kids' oral care and caries prevention. Earlier mouthwashes were marketed to adults, but in recent years there come marketing mouthwashes specifically to children. Brightly colored and flavored mouthwashes are made available, specifically for kids. Mouthwashes commonly called mouth rinses help in reducing gum inflammation, reduce bacterial load and caries prevention.
This shift can be related to preventive oral care and to beginning oral hygiene practices at a younger age. Let's discuss whether it is safe or not. If yes, what are the benefits?
Are Mouthwashes Safe for Kids?
Yes, mouthwashes are safe for kids, but under certain conditions.
The International Dental Federation recommends the use of fluoride mouthwash for children aged six and older but strictly advises against its use for children under six. Younger children tend to swallow the sweet-tasting mouth rinse, as their swallow reflexes are not fully developed. The swallowing of fluoride mouth rinses can lead to toxicity, nausea, and vomiting.
Children between six and twelve years should use mouthwashes under parental supervision. Parents should also make the children understand that mouth rinses are not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Help them to follow an oral care routine with brushing, flossing, and mouthwashes.
Please note that mouthwashes are not a must for children. If used, supervise the children, or use it as recommended by the dentist.
What Are the Benefits of Mouthwashes?
Fluoride mouthwashes help in preventing tooth decay.
Prevents the growth of bacteria and leaves a fresh breath.
In kids with orthodontic braces and appliances, mouthwashes help in giving an extra cleaning effect.
It helps to clean teeth and gums that are otherwise not cleaned properly by brushing alone.
How to Choose a Mouthwash for Kids?
Choose a mouthwash specifically made for kids with a good flavor. Fluoride mouthwashes with calcium and phosphate strengthen the tooth enamel and help prevent cavities.
Adult mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can be tolerated by them and not by kids. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash because swallowing the alcohol is counterproductive to the child's growing body.
Prefer a mouthwash free from alcohol, that does not cause a burning sensation and irritation of taste buds.
Give the kids a try with the mouthwash before going for regular use.
Kids prefer a pleasing kid-friendly flavor without the strong flavor of mint. Go through the ingredients and select one free of artificial dyes and sweeteners.
If needed, take advice from a dentist before starting to use it.
A curated list of Kids Mouthwash options to choose from:
Children's anticavity fluoride mouth rinse makes oral hygiene effective and fun. They are specially designed to clean areas that are hard to reach by the kids brushing.
The active ingredient sodium fluoride 0.04% helps prevent tooth decay, preserving milk teeth and the natural flavoring agents leave a fresher breath.
Mouth rinses are made better with delightful flavors like silly strawberry, refreshing mint, and cool mountain mint.
The product is fragrance-free and alcohol-free with the absence of potential irritation and burning sensation in the mouth.
Tom's of Maine uses the goodness of natural ingredients with no artificial preservatives, flavoring agents, or dyes to ensure it is a kid's safe product.
Initially, parental supervision is suggested to remind them not to swallow the mouth rinse.
Parents can choose Tom's of Maine's mouth rinse as a safe and enjoyable option that focuses on oral health, with natural ingredients and delicious flavor.
hello kid's fluoride-free mouth rinses are specially made for younger ones to develop oral care habits. Mouth Rinse helps to remove the remaining debris that might be missed from toothbrushing.
Fluoride-free and alcohol-free, making it safe,if swallowed accidentally.
Made with high-quality globally sourced ingredients. Ensures excellent quality
Soothing aloe vera and natural sweetener xylitol, flavored with watermelon making it a top choice for parents and kids
Free from harmful additives like SLS, parabens, gluten, and other artificial preservatives.
Vegan and cruelty-free products promote sustainable and ethical living.
Kid-friendly product, as they love the taste, smell, and color and add fun to their oral care routine.
hello kids fluoride mouthwash with delightful bubble gum flavor, helps prevent cavities and to preserve the beautiful smile.
0.05% sodium fluoride concentration fights tooth decay and strengthens the teeth.
Perfect addition to routine oral care as it rinses away all the leftover debris missed by the little brushes.
All the ingredients are globally sourced and made in the USA.
Mouth rinse is free from alcohol, dyes, sulfates, artificial flavoring agents, and artificial sweeteners.
Vegan, cruelty-free products are committed to eco-friendly and sustainable living.
Leaping Bunny certified product ensures none of the ingredients are tested on animals.
Great taste with bubble gum flavor encourages the kid to use it regularly
Initially need parental supervision for mouth rinsing with a fluoride mouth rinse, to prevent swallowing and to develop proper techniques and habits.
A Last Note.
Mouthwashes for kids give an extra benefit of oral cleaning and help prevent tooth decay. Mouth rinses are not a must to be incorporated and should not be used for kids below six years of age. Parents should monitor the kids and make them spit out the mouth rinse.
Use a good flavored one without alcohol and other chemical ingredients. Choosing the right product helps in making teeth healthy and creating cute smiles.
