When it comes to choosing the right toothpaste for your child, the number one factor in your decision making process should be your child's age. Today our Burnaby children's dentists help you to choose the best toothpaste for your child.
Oral Hygiene for Children Under 3 Years
Fluoride toothpaste is typically not recommended for this age group unless the child is at risk of tooth decay. Consult your dentist to determine whether your child is at risk of developing tooth decay. If your dentist considers your child to be at low risk, then having your child's teeth brushed by adult using just a soft toothbrush and water is ideal.
If your child is at risk for tooth decay and fluoride is recommended, your child's teeth should be brushed by an adult using only a tiny portion of fluoride toothpaste, (about the size of a grain of rice). This very small amount of fluoride toothpaste has been determined to achieve a balance between the benefits of fluoride and the risk of the child developing fluorosis.
Oral Hygiene for Children Over 3 Years
For children over 3 years of age fluoride toothpaste is recommended. There are many child friendly toothpastes available from grocery stores and pharmacies but not all children's toothpastes include fluoride. Look for a toothpaste that has the symbol of the Canadian Dental Association on the packaging. This symbol assures parents that the toothpaste contains fluoride.
Until your child has adequate manual dexterity to brush their teeth thoroughly it's important for an adult to continue helping. Typically it is recommended that children under 6 years of age be assisted by adult when brushing their teeth.
Use only a small amount of toothpaste, about the size of a pea, and be sure that your child spits it out. Swallowing excessive amounts of toothpaste may result in dental fluorosis