Taking care of your teeth goes beyond brushing once per day, as it is a good idea to floss and use mouthwash as well. When selecting a mouthwash for your children, however, you will have some careful decisions to make. If you have any questions about your child using mouthwash, contact one of the pediatric dentists in Carlsbad immediately.

Not Too Young
Most pediatric dentists in Carlsbad recommend waiting until your child is at least six years old before allowing her to use mouthwash. This is because mouthwash often contains alcohol and other substances that could cause harm if ingested. Always keep mouthwash out of the reach of children of all ages and only allow them to use it under parental supervision.

Reason for Using
The main reason why your child should be using mouthwash is to keep his gums healthy. Mouthwash prevents certain bacterium from building up in the mouth, which keeps the gums in good shape. If your child is using mouthwash to combat bad breath and requires a daily dosage to prevent this odor, it could signal another underlying cause that needs treatment.

Discontinuing Use
In situations where your child complains of burning in the soft tissues of her mouth after using mouthwash, stop her from using it right away. It is also a good idea to make an appointment with a dentist to ensure that a more serious problem has not developed. Carlsbad Children’s Dentistry specializes in treating children’s dental problems. You can make an appointment by calling them at 760-633-1131