Should I Let My Child Use Plaque Disclosing Tablets to Brush?

Posted on 7/15/2025 by NC Pediatric Dentisty

Mother and young son smiling while brushing their teeth together in a bright bathroom, demonstrating a family dental hygiene routine.

As a pediatric dentist, I often get asked about plaque-disclosing tablets. These chewable tablets stain plaque a bright color, making it easier for kids to see where they need to brush more effectively. While these tablets can be a fun and helpful tool, there are a few things to consider before letting your child use them.

What are plaque-disclosing tablets?

Plaque is a sticky film that builds up on teeth and contains bacteria. If plaque isn't removed regularly, it can harden into calculus (tartar) and lead to cavities and gum disease. Plaque-disclosing tablets are designed to show kids where plaque is hiding on their teeth. The tablets contain a harmless dye that temporarily stains plaque a bright color, such as blue or red. This makes it easier for kids to see where they need to brush more thoroughly.

Benefits of using plaque-disclosing tablets

There are several benefits to using plaque-disclosing tablets with your child:

•	Makes brushing more fun: For some kids, brushing their teeth can feel like a chore. Plaque-disclosing tablets can make brushing more fun and engaging, encouraging kids to brush for longer and more effectively.
•	Helps kids see where they need to brush: Plaque is often invisible to the naked eye, making it difficult for kids to know where they need to focus their brushing. Plaque-disclosing tablets make plaque visible, helping kids see exactly where they need to brush to remove it.
•	Improves brushing technique: By seeing where plaque is accumulating, kids can learn to adjust their brushing technique and reach all areas of their teeth.
•	Motivates kids to brush more often: Seeing the results of their brushing can motivate kids to brush more often and take better care of their teeth.

Considerations before using plaque-disclosing tablets

While plaque-disclosing tablets can be a helpful tool, there are a few things to consider before using them with your child:

•	Not a substitute for good brushing habits: Plaque-disclosing tablets should not be used as a substitute for proper brushing and flossing. They are simply a tool to help kids visualize where they need to improve their brushing technique.
•	May stain teeth temporarily: The dye in plaque-disclosing tablets can temporarily stain teeth, especially if your child has braces or other dental work. However, the stain is harmless and will fade within a few hours.
•	Not recommended for young children: Plaque-disclosing tablets are not recommended for children under the age of 3, as they may not understand not to swallow the tablets.
•	May cause anxiety in some children: Some children may be anxious about the color change and refuse to use the tablets. If this is the case, don't force your child to use them.

Tips for using plaque-disclosing tablets

If you decide to use plaque-disclosing tablets with your child, here are a few tips:

•	Use them after brushing: Have your child brush their teeth as usual, then use the tablet to see where they missed any plaque.
•	Focus on technique: Help your child see how their brushing technique can be improved based on the areas where plaque remains.
•	Make it fun: Turn plaque-disclosing into a game to make brushing more enjoyable.
•	Talk to your dentist: If you have any questions or concerns about using plaque-disclosing tablets, talk to your child's dentist.

Conclusion

Plaque-disclosing tablets can be a fun and helpful tool to help kids improve their brushing habits and remove plaque more effectively. However, it's important to use them correctly and talk to your child's dentist if you have any questions.

Smiles from ear-to-ear with locations from here-to-here.

Our community of dentistry superheroes prioritizes smiles above all else—theirs AND yours. That’s why we make it easy to find the location that’s right for you. Learn what to expect for your first visit, virtually tour the space, meet the dentists, and discover location-specific specialties and resources below.

A BETTER DENTAL EXPERIENCE

NC’s Premier network of pediatric dental practices is committed to delivering a full suite of trusted, comfortable, and informative oral care services. With kid-centric spaces and experiences, we teach kids how to care for their smiles.

About NC Pediatric Dentistry - Expert Kids' Dental Care
NC Pediatric Dentistry offers kid-friendly dental care across NC. We provide fun, safe, and educational experiences for children. Learn more today!
NC Pediatric Dentistry, 202 Williamson Rd. Suite 200, Mooresville, NC 28117 • tbd • ncpediatricdentistry.com • 8/8/2025 • Associated Words: pediatric dentist •

Should I Let My Child Use Plaque Disclosing Tablets to Brush?

What are plaque-disclosing tablets?

Benefits of using plaque-disclosing tablets

Considerations before using plaque-disclosing tablets

Tips for using plaque-disclosing tablets

Conclusion

Smiles from ear-to-ear with locations from here-to-here.

Advance Pediatric Dentistry

Afton Pediatric Dentistry

Caldwell Pediatric Dentistry

Denver Pediatric Dentistry

Dunn Pediatric Dentistry

Fuquay Pediatric Dentistry

Hickory Grove Pediatric Dentistry

Huntersville Pediatric Dentistry

Locust Pediatric Dentistry

Mebane Pediatric Dentistry

Mint Hill Pediatric Dentistry

Mooresville Pediatric Dentistry

Salisbury Pediatric Dentistry

Shelby Pediatric Dentistry

Sherrills Ford Pediatric Dentistry

Statesville Pediatric Dentistry

A BETTER DENTAL EXPERIENCE