It is ultimately the parents’ responsibility to brush their children’s teeth for them as they watch older toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children until they establish appropriate technique and are sure they are spitting out the toothpaste.
Consult your pediatric dentist if you’re concerned that your child is getting too much or too little fluoride.
Choosing the right toothpaste for your child might have a big influence on his or her dental health. Finding the proper brand might be challenging with so many options available.
So, how do you make up your mind? When picking toothpaste for your child, there are a few factors to keep in mind. You can help your child’s smile stay strong and brilliant by following these tips to avoid cavities and tooth decay.
Toothpaste recommendations according to age:
2-4 Years
It is safe (and helpful) to start your child on a low fluoride, age-appropriate children’s toothpaste once they can safely spit out toothpaste. While most children’s toothpastes are acceptable from the age of two, the age at which a youngster can spit out varies. If your child is two years old or older but still can’t spit securely, you should use non-fluoridated toothpaste.
Make sure you just use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, and have your youngster spit out as much as they can once they’re done brushing.
Once your kid is able to spit securely, we recommend the following fluoride toothpaste: It’s safe to say that all of your bases have been covered. You may feel lured in by the marketing and attractiveness of cartoon characters, but if it’s what it takes to encourage your child to like brushing, I’d say it’s worth it!
4-6 Years
Here’s some expert knowledge.
Your child will have all 20 primary (baby) teeth by the age of 4. These teeth are vital for a variety of reasons and must be cared for until adult teeth replace them. Tooth decay in the primary teeth might indicate a higher risk of tooth decay in the permanent (adult) teeth.
Fluoride is required to prevent tooth decay throughout one’s life. One of the most efficient strategies for you and your children to avoid decay is to use fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Fluoride in toothpaste strengthens teeth against acids generated by eating or drinking. Fluoride also aids in the restoration of minerals lost from the teeth and can even cure tooth decay in its early stages.
Children under the age of six should use a low-fluoride toothpaste like Colgate Sparkling Mint Gel 2-6 because they swallow rather than spit out extra toothpaste. On the advice of your pediatric dentist, a higher strength fluoride may be recommended in some youngsters. After the age of six, children should use fluoride-rich toothpaste, such as Colgate Sparkling Mint Gel 6+.
Please see your pediatric dentist if you are unclear whether your kid requires a stronger toothpaste.
6 Years and Up
We recommend a toothpaste with 1450ppm fluoride for children in this age range who can spit pretty adequately. Currently, Macleans Big Teeth, Oral B Junior 6+, and Colgate Maximum Cavity Protection Junior are the three most popular alternatives.
Allergies, Special Needs, and Flavor Aversions in Children
Plain toothpaste, which contains 1000ppm fluoride and is safe for children aged 4 and above in many conditions, is recommended for children with sensitivities to flavors and colors.
Patients with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), or other special needs may reject toothpaste that foams or has a gritty feel.
At each check-up, your pediatric dentist should advise you on the best toothpaste to use for your kid. Please ask your pediatric dentist if you’re unsure about which toothpaste to use.
Toothbrush Size
When your child first starts brushing, make sure they have a toothbrush that is the proper size for them. It’s critical to select the correct toothbrush for your child, one that is created specifically for children aged 2 to 5. Small oval heads, soft bristles of various heights, and non-slip, cushioned grips characterize these toothbrushes. Cartoons and colorful designs are frequently featured on the handle, which your youngster may enjoy.
Electric toothbrushes may appeal to your youngster because of their novelty. Although some electric toothbrushes clean somewhat better than manual brushes, it’s preferable to go with your child’s preference.
Keeping the Toothbrush Dry and Clean
After cleaning your child’s teeth and gums, rinse the toothbrush with tap water. Store the toothbrush upright in an open container to allow it to air-dry. You should replace toothbrushes every 3-4 months, or when the bristles get worn or frayed.
My practice is dedicated to ensuring that your child’s smile is both attractive and comfortable. As a pediatric dentist, I am able to do this by working as a team with you and your child. If you have any questions or concerns concerning their oral health, please contact me as soon as possible.