If you are like most people, you probably love the minty fresh feeling that comes from using a mouthwash. Apart from keeping your mouth fresh, mouthwash also helps remove any missed food particles when brushing your teeth. However, just because you use mouthwash, does it mean that your child can use it as well?
Well, many parents often make the mistake of introducing mouthwash to their kids if they struggle with bad breath. They usually overlook the possibility that the problem could be a result of poor oral hygiene. So, before you teach your child how to use mouthwash, you need to ensure that they are already practicing good oral hygiene.
Here is a simple checklist of good dental habits that will help you determine whether your child is ready to begin using a mouthwash:
Are they Brushing Regularly?
Dentists usually recommend brushing teeth at least twice a day for two minutes per session.
Are they Applying the Right Brushing Technique?
Some children tend to brush only the front teeth and ignore the ones further back in the mouth. This is a wrong method of brushing and can lead to dental problems such as cavities and plaque build-up.
Are they Brushing their Tongue?
Sometimes issues such as bad breath may arise due to failure to brush the tongue. You should, therefore, teach your child how to use the back of their brush for cleaning their tongue
Are they Flossing their Teeth?
Flossing is one of the most important oral care practices. It helps remove food particles that get stuck in between teeth or gums. By flossing regularly, you can avoid problems such as cavities and bad breath.
Selecting the Right Mouthwash for Your Child
With so many products in the market, finding the right mouthwash for your child can seem like a difficult task. Fortunately, we’ve made the process easier for you. Here are some of the things you need to consider when choosing the ideal mouthwash.
Fluoridated or non-fluoridated: If your municipal water supply contains fluorine, you may not need to purchase a fluoridated mouthwash.
Alcohol or Alcohol-Free: Most mouthwash products usually contain alcohol, which acts as an antiseptic and antibacterial agent. However, if you have concerns about your child using these types of mouthwash, you can opt for alcohol-free products.
Prescription or Over-the-Counter: In most cases, an over-the-counter mouthwash should suffice for your child’s needs. However, if you think they require something stronger, you can get a prescription mouthwash from your dentist.
Contact iSmiles Today
While it is okay to add mouthwash to your child’s oral care routine, you should always supervise them to ensure they are using it safely. At iSmiles, we provide quality oral and dental care services and training for young children. We deeply value our clients, and are committed to ensuring they receive the best oral care possible so that they can smile for longer. Give us a call today if you have any questions about the services and products that we offer.