Kids Health

We get many questions in our office about the best ways to help children get a healthy smile that last a lifetime. Today, we’re going to cover some key point about mouthwash, and how different types offer different benefits. 

Mouthwash is Versatile and Diverse

First, you have to narrow down what you’re helping your child accomplish by adding mouthwash into their oral care routine. Are you looking to clear up bad breath? Do you want to help reduce tooth decay or strengthen enamel? If you know what you want to get from a mouthwash, then you’ll be better prepared to choose the right one for your child.

Cosmetic Mouthwash 

There are two types of mouthwashes available: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwash gives your mouth a clean, pleasant taste and reduces bad breath. However, cosmetic mouthwash treats the symptoms of bad breath, and acts as more of a masking agent that overcomes bad breath.

Therapeutic Mouthwash 

Therapeutic mouthwash helps treat tooth decay, prevent gingivitis and reduces plaque buildup. Therapeutic mouthwash may not freshen your breath as well as cosmetic mouthwash, but it will help fight the causes of bad breath. Before using any therapeutic mouthwash, or incorporating it into your children’s oral health routine, call our office and schedule an appointment. 

Children’s Mouthwash? 

There are many mouthwashes specifically designed for children to use, and most of them do not contain any alcohol. Mouthwash for children is usually therapeutic and takes care of bad breath. These mouthwashes also come in kid-friendly flavors, and feature many of their favorite cartoon characters and superheroes. Children’s mouthwash helps fight cavities, and can help improve enamel strength.

When buying your child's mouthwash, be sure that the product contains the ADA seal of approval. This will help you find a mouthwash that has been rigorously tested and approved by a legitimate association that advocates for oral health. 

When Can Children Use Mouthwash? 

Mouthwash should not be used by children ages six and under. However, in some instances mouthwash may be prescribed for a child under the age of six, but that only occurs in special cases. 

Consult Our Office 

Mouthwash can be an effective tool for any person to add to their oral health care routine. If you have any questions about mouthwash, and the type that’s right for your child, then ask us during your next visit. 

As a parent, it’s your job to make oral healthcare fun, and as approachable as possible by mitigating fear and anxiety, and replacing negative feelings with optimism and instruction. A great place to begin encouraging your young child is at home. Try making oral healthcare fun and informative with these fun brushing tips! 

1 – Use Videos

For first time brushers, it can be tough to brush for two minutes at a time. This is due to a number of things, but it mostly comes down to the fact that it’s difficult to keep young children still and focused on brushing their teeth for two minutes. You can help your child have more fun while they brush by letting them brush while watching a tooth brushing video. These educational videos help guide children through brushing their teeth, and each lasts at least two minutes. We suggest finding one that you deem appropriate for your child, and one that they will enjoy watching.

2 – Brush Together

One great way to help first time brushers is by brushing with them. This allows you to give them specific brushing tips, as well as keep an eye on how ling they’re brushing. It can also help you get into a fun routine with your child and have a bit more time together.

3 – Buy an Electric Toothbrush

An electric toothbrush is an appealing option for children just beginning to brush, since they require less dexterity and physical motion to operate. Additionally, most electric toothbrushes feature brushing timers which tell the operator how much time they have left to brush, as well as a pressure monitor which informs the brusher when they’re brushing too hard. We suggest looking for an electric toothbrush specifically made for children. 

4 – Read Tooth-Friendly Books

By reading books with your child, you can help them form positive associations with healthcare, and get them excited about caring for their teeth! Try adding some fun children’s books to your home, and other informative dental games and materials to teach your child about oral healthcare. Try making oral healthcare fun and informative with these fantastic dental books for children:

The Tooth Book 
Clarabella’s Teeth 
The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist 
I Know Why I Brush My Teeth

New Brushers Love Our Office 

If your child is just beginning to brush, then visit our office. Our team of pediatric dentists can teach them how to properly brush, and help them learn about the finer points of oral healthcare. Tooth decay is almost entirely preventable, help your child get a healthy smile by getting into a healthy brushing routine.