Types of Toothpaste and When to Start

Your child’s dental health is important, and should be attended to as soon as teeth begin to come in. However, it is clear that you don’t want to use toothpaste with an infant or young toddler. As an infant you should simply clean your child’s teeth with a damp cloth. So at what age should you start using toothpaste?

As a general rule, you should start using toothpaste on your child’s teeth when they are about the age of two to three. It really depends on your child’s development and how well they take instruction. At about this age they are typically old enough to understand that they cannot swallow the toothpaste. They are also generally more cooperative and can assist in the process. This is also a good age to start teaching them to brush their teeth on their own, although they will likely still require assistance for a couple more years.

When brushing your child’s teeth, make sure that you are not using too much toothpaste. Only a pea sized amount is required to clean your child’s teeth. Too much toothpaste will only make your child more likely to swallow or choke, and can actually make brushing less effective.

Another common question parents have is what kind of toothpaste to buy. It can be overwhelming to go to the store and hit the toothpaste aisle. Most stores have an entire long aisle dedicated to the various types and of toothpaste. There are so many brands to choose from. There are also a lot of different types, such as whitening, sensitive, and fluoride.

When choosing a toothpaste for your child, it can be helpful to choose one that is flavored and designed for children. This makes arguments about brushing teeth less likely with your toddler. However, you still need to watch the ingredients and make sure you are getting the best toothpaste. Not all toothpastes made for children actually do a good job of protecting their dental health. Some are definitely better than others.

The best toothpaste for your child is one high in fluoride. Whitening toothpastes are typically inappropriate for young children. However, if your child has sensitive teeth those toothpastes designed for that purpose can be helpful. Whatever toothpaste you choose, make sure that it has the appropriate amount of fluoride and is one that your child will not complain about the taste. It is also a good idea to choose the toothpastes that actively promote protection against cavities.

If you have additional questions about the types of toothpaste and just don’t know which one to choose, talk to your child’s dentist. We know more about what types and brands of toothpaste do the best job and promote dental health for your child. You know your child best, and we know their dental health. By answering a few questions about your child’s development, and allowing a thorough check up, we can recommend a toothpaste for your child based on their individual needs.