As a parent, you make countless choices to ensure the well-being of your child. One small yet important decision you’ll need to make is selecting the right toothpaste for your child. Though it might seem like a straightforward task, not every toothpaste is ideal for children. To help you, we’ve compiled some important factors to consider when choosing the best toothpaste for kids.
Age Considerations
Infants
For infants under three years old, use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste, approximately the size of a grain of rice. Try to minimize the amount your child swallows and encourage them to drink water after brushing.
Toddlers and Children
As your child grows and learns to spit toothpaste rather than swallow it, use a pea-sized amount twice a day. Continue to help your child brush until the age of five or six. Fluoride is essential for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing tooth decay.
Kid-Friendly Flavors
Children are more likely to brush their teeth willingly if they enjoy the taste of their toothpaste. Experiment with different flavored toothpaste, such as bubble gum, strawberry, or mint, to find the one your child prefers. If your child is okay with the minty flavor of adult toothpaste, don’t hesitate to let them use it! Toothpaste for children and adults has the same amount of fluoride, so the same rules apply. Use a smear of toothpaste the size of a pea and make sure they spit it out.
ADA Seal of Acceptance
When selecting toothpaste for your child, always look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. This seal verifies that the toothpaste meets the safety and efficacy standards established by the ADA, ensuring that it’s safe and effective for your child’s dental hygiene.
Texture and Consistency
Children may be sensitive to the texture or consistency of toothpaste. Toothpaste comes in various forms, including gel and paste, so find a toothpaste with a consistency that your child is comfortable with. Choose a toothpaste with mild abrasives and stay away from any that have harsh abrasives.
Consult Your Child’s Dentist
Finally, don’t hesitate to consult your pediatric dentist for recommendations. Their professional advice can be invaluable in choosing the most suitable toothpaste. Additionally, they can guide you on fluoride usage and dental care practices, ensuring that your child’s teeth remain healthy and strong.
Pediatric Dentist Denver
At Youth Dental and Vision, we help parents make informed decisions about their children’s oral health. We are a team of experienced and passionate pediatric dentists in Denver, dedicated to providing quality dental services for your child. With our comprehensive range of treatments and preventive measures, we can ensure that your child has strong and healthy teeth for life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
To book an appointment in Aurora, Denver, Thornton, or Hampden, call (303) 953-8801 or complete the online booking form.
For more dental tips, read our blog at Denver Youth Dental and Vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Age Should My Child Begin Using Fluoride Toothpaste?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, fluoride toothpaste is recommended for babies and toddlers. Smear a small amount of toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice, on their toothbrush. Once they learn to spit, increase the amount to a pea-sized and supervise brushing to make sure they are spitting out the toothpaste and not swallowing.
How Often Should I Brush My Child’s Teeth?
Children should brush their teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time. If they are younger than six years old, you should help them brush their teeth until they can do it on their own.
What is the ADA Seal of Acceptance?
The ADA Seal of Acceptance is a symbol that appears on toothpaste packages to indicate that the product has been tested and approved by the American Dental Association. This seal ensures that the toothpaste meets high safety and efficacy standards.
Where Can I Find a Pediatric Dentist in Denver?
Youth Dental and Vision is an experienced team of pediatric dentists in Denver. Our comprehensive range of treatments and preventive measures will ensure that your child has strong, healthy teeth for life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Is it ok if a child swallows a little bit of toothpaste?
It is best to avoid swallowing toothpaste, as too much fluoride can lead to dental fluorosis. For children under 2 years old, it is generally recommended to use a fluoride-free toothpaste. If your child does swallow some toothpaste, make sure that they drink plenty of water and rinse their mouth out with plain water afterwards.
What is dental fluorosis?
Dental fluorosis is a condition that results in white spots on the teeth. It can be caused by ingesting too much fluoride, which is why it’s important to choose the right toothpaste for your child. Fluoride-free toothpastes are generally recommended for infants under 2 years old.
Does dental fluorisis go away?
Dental fluorosis is not reversible and the white spots on the teeth will remain even after brushing. However, it generally does not cause any health problems or interfere with normal tooth development.
