Mouth Ninja

7 Best Mouthwashes for Kids (2024): Safe & Effective Oral Care

As parents, we always want to ensure that our children are practicing good oral hygiene habits.

One essential tool in maintaining healthy teeth and gums is mouthwash. Not only does it freshen breath, but it also helps to kill bacteria and prevent cavities.

However, not all mouthwashes are created equal, and some can be too strong for kids.

Listerine Smart Rinse Kids Mouthwash
  • Bubble Blast flavor to strengthen teeth and protect against cavities when used as part of a regular oral care routine
  • Formulated with sodium fluoride and acidulated phosphate, this alcohol-free kids oral rinse cleans the mouth beyond brushing alone and helps prevent dental caries in hard to reach places
  • Anticavity mouthwash freshens breath by killing 99.9% of bad breath germs
  • This bubble gum mouthwash is accepted by the American Dental Association (ADA)
Crest Kid's Mouthwash
  • Crest Kid's Bubblegum mouthwash reaches where brushing may miss.
  • Designed for kids ages 6 and up.
  • Alcohol Free mouthwash
  • Anticavity fluoride mouthwash
  • Same great bubblegum flavor, now available in mouthwash
ACT Kids Mouthwash
  • 3 KID Approved Flavors
  • ZERO ALCOHOL: This ACT Oral Care Product is an alcohol-free mouthwash
    STRENGTHENS TEETH: This ACT Kids Mouthwash helps strengthen teeth
    ACCURATE DOSING CUP: Get the right dose of fluoride with the easy-to-use dosing meter
    DENTIST RECOMMENDED BRAND

In this article, we have compiled a list of the seven best mouthwashes for kids, along with mini reviews and pros and cons for each product.

1. Listerine Smart Rinse Anticavity Mouthwash

Listerine Smart Rinse is a popular choice for parents because it is specifically designed for kids aged six and older. It contains fluoride, which helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. It also has a fun and fruity flavor that kids will love.

Pros:

  • Contains fluoride for cavity protection
  • Fun flavor that kids will enjoy
  • Easy to use and safe for kids aged six and older

Cons:

  • Can cause a slight burning sensation in the mouth
  • Contains alcohol, which may be a concern for some parents

2. Crest Kid’s Anticavity Fluoride Rinse

Crest Kid’s Anticavity Fluoride Rinse is another great option for parents. It is alcohol-free and has a mild and refreshing taste that kids will find pleasant. It also contains fluoride to help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

Pros:

  • Alcohol-free and gentle on sensitive mouths
  • Mild and refreshing taste
  • Contains fluoride for cavity protection

Cons:

  • Some users have reported that the cap is difficult to open
  • May cause a slight tingling sensation in the mouth

3. ACT Kids Anticavity Fluoride Rinse

ACT Kids Anticavity Fluoride Rinse is a favorite among parents and dentists alike. It contains fluoride to help prevent cavities and has a fun bubblegum flavor that kids will love. It is also alcohol-free, making it safe and gentle for kids to use.

Pros:

  • Contains fluoride for cavity protection
  • Fun bubblegum flavor that kids will enjoy
  • Alcohol-free and safe for kids to use

Cons:

  • Some users have reported that the bottle is difficult to squeeze
  • May cause a slight burning sensation in the mouth

4. Tom’s of Maine Children’s Anticavity Fluoride Rinse

Tom’s of Maine Children’s Anticavity Fluoride Rinse is a natural and organic option for parents who prefer a more eco-friendly product. It contains fluoride to help prevent cavities and has a mild fruit flavor that kids will find pleasant. It is also alcohol-free and does not contain any artificial colors or flavors.

Pros:

  • Natural and organic option for eco-conscious parents
  • Contains fluoride for cavity protection
  • Mild fruit flavor that kids will enjoy

Cons:

  • Some users have reported that the bottle is difficult to open
  • May cause a slight burning sensation in the mouth

5. Hello Oral Care Kids Fluoride Rinse

Hello Oral Care Kids Fluoride Rinse is a popular choice for parents who want a mouthwash that is free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners. It contains fluoride to help prevent cavities and has a yummy strawberry flavor that kids will love. It is also alcohol-free and gentle on sensitive mouths.

Pros:

  • Free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners
  • Contains fluoride for cavity protection
  • Yummy strawberry flavor that kids will enjoy

Cons:

  • Some users have reported that the bottle leaks
  • May cause a slight burning sensation in the mouth

6. Firefly Kids Mouthwash

Firefly Kids Mouthwash is a fun and interactive mouthwash that is designed to make brushing and rinsing more enjoyable for kids. It comes with

a built-in timer that flashes for 60 seconds, encouraging kids to rinse for the recommended amount of time. It also has a mild and fruity flavor that kids will enjoy.

Pros:

  • Built-in timer to encourage kids to rinse for the recommended amount of time
  • Fun and interactive design
  • Mild and fruity flavor that kids will enjoy

Cons:

  • Some users have reported that the cap is difficult to open
  • Contains alcohol, which may be a concern for some parents

7. TheraBreath Kids Anti-Cavity Oral Rinse

TheraBreath Kids Anti-Cavity Oral Rinse is a great option for parents who want a mouthwash that is free from harsh chemicals and artificial flavors. It contains fluoride to help prevent cavities and has a mild and pleasant taste that kids will find refreshing. It is also alcohol-free and does not contain any artificial colors or flavors.

Pros:

  • Free from harsh chemicals and artificial flavors
  • Contains fluoride for cavity protection
  • Mild and pleasant taste that kids will enjoy

Cons:

  • Some users have reported that the bottle leaks
  • May cause a slight burning sensation in the mouth

Buying Guide: Choosing The Perfect Kids Mouthwash

  1. Age: Consider your child’s age when choosing a mouthwash. Some mouthwashes are specifically designed for children aged six and older, while others may be suitable for younger children.
  2. Fluoride content: Look for a mouthwash that contains fluoride, as it helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. However, make sure that the fluoride content is appropriate for your child’s age.
  3. Taste: Choose a mouthwash with a flavor that your child will enjoy. This will make it more likely that they will use it regularly.
  4. Alcohol-free: Consider choosing an alcohol-free mouthwash, as alcohol can be too strong and harsh for some children’s mouths.
  5. Artificial ingredients: Some mouthwashes contain artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners, which may be a concern for some parents. If this is important to you, look for a mouthwash that is free from artificial ingredients.
  6. Brand reputation: Choose a reputable brand that is well-known for producing high-quality mouthwash products.
  7. Price: Mouthwash prices can vary widely, so consider your budget when choosing a product. However, keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best quality.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best mouthwash for your child’s needs and help them maintain good oral hygiene habits for a lifetime.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right mouthwash for your child can be a daunting task, but it is essential for their oral health.

The products listed above are some of the best mouthwashes for kids on the market, each with their own unique features and benefits.

By considering the pros and cons of each product, you can make an informed decision and choose the best mouthwash for your child’s needs.

FAQ’s

At what age can my child start using mouthwash?

Most mouthwashes are recommended for children aged six and older. However, some mouthwashes are designed specifically for younger children, so be sure to check the label before use.

What should I look for in a kids mouthwash?

Look for a mouthwash that is age-appropriate, contains fluoride, has a taste your child will enjoy, and is alcohol-free. Consider any artificial ingredients and brand reputation, and check the price to ensure it fits within your budget.

Is it safe for my child to swallow mouthwash?

While mouthwash is generally safe to swallow in small amounts, it is not recommended. Encourage your child to spit out the mouthwash after use.

Can mouthwash replace brushing and flossing?

No, mouthwash should be used in addition to brushing and flossing. It is not a substitute for proper oral hygiene habits.

How often should my child use mouthwash?

It is recommended to use mouthwash twice a day after brushing and flossing. However, consult with your child’s dentist for specific recommendations based on their individual needs.

Can mouthwash cause any side effects?

In rare cases, mouthwash can cause side effects such as mouth ulcers, sensitivity, or an allergic reaction. If your child experiences any unusual symptoms, stop using the mouthwash and consult with a dentist or doctor.

How long should my child rinse with mouthwash?

The recommended rinsing time is usually 30-60 seconds. Some mouthwashes come with built-in timers to help children rinse for the appropriate amount of time.

author avatar
Kate Colley
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