Should children use mouthwash?

Should children use mouthwash?

The tooth fairy can rest easy, using mouthwash between brushing can be beneficial for children but not necessarily as a post-brushing rinse.


Asked by: Ash Class, Bosmere Primary School, Ipswich

Research on children aged 6 to 14 has found a large reduction in tooth decay when using a fluoride-based mouthwash.

However, all the trials gave the mouthwash to children in a supervised setting at school, in between teeth brushings. There’s no evidence that a quick rinse at the same time as you brush your teeth provides any extra benefit.

So a rinse during lunchtime could be beneficial, but children are recommended to check with their dentist before using mouthwash.

Read more:

Subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun facts.

© Getty Images