Mouthwash can be a very helpful part of your dental hygiene routine. Mouthwash can kill bad bacteria in the mouth, preventing dental cavities and gingivitis. It’s also used to improve and freshen breath. Some parents wonder if mouthwash is healthy for kids, and the answer is yes! But it’s important to make sure you’re adding mouthwash to your child’s routine in a healthy way.

The American Dental Association recommends waiting until your kids are at least six years old before introducing mouthwash. Six is the age that most kids are able to swish and spit mouthwash without accidentally swallowing it. When you do choose to give your child mouthwash, make sure it contains sodium fluoride and is alcohol-free. There are a few special mouthwash brands that cater specifically to kids, including ACT Kid’s Anti-Cavity Mouthwash and Firefly Kid’s Mouthwash.

Children’s Mouthwash Tips

Below are a few tips to use when introducing mouthwash into your child’s oral hygiene routine:

• Choose a yummy flavor like berry or bubblegum
• Supervise your kids to make sure they’re swishing and spitting properly
• Make sure your kids are also still brushing and flossing
• Work your way up to swishing for a full minute – your children may not be able to do it that long at first

Please remember that mouthwash is not a substitute for the rest of your child’s dental hygiene routine. Your kids should still be brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist every six months for a cleaning and a checkup.