A Parent’s Guide to Choosing the Right Toothpaste and Brush for Your Children
Ensuring that your child’s oral hygiene continues to improve as they grow older is crucial. A crucial step in this process is choosing the right type of toothpaste for your child. With many different options available on the market, this task can seem overwhelming.
In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to selecting the best toothpaste and brush for your children’s oral health.
Check Fluoride Content
Fluoride is a crucial ingredient in toothpaste that helps protect against cavities and gum disease. Its primary purpose is to strengthen enamel, making teeth less prone to breakage. Fluoride toothpaste is recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA) to use as soon as your baby’s first tooth breaks through the gumline. Concerns about fluoride are common. However, small controlled amounts are both beneficial and safe for children to ingest and use on a continuous basis. It is recommended that children under the age of three use a dose equivalent to a grain of rice in fluoride, while children older than six years of age can use a pea-size dab.
Use an ADA-Approved Toothpaste
A seal of acceptance by the American Dental Association is a positive sign of safety and quality. When a toothpaste bears this seal, you can be assured it meets the ADA’s standards. This seal ensures the toothpaste contains the correct amount of fluoride, is safe for children, and works effectively to help prevent cavities. Before buying toothpaste for your child from a store, look for the ADA seal of approval on the tube or box to ensure your toothpaste has been tested for effectiveness.
Pick an Enjoyable Flavor
A significant challenge that many parents run into when it comes to brushing their children’s teeth is finding a flavor that they enjoy. Choosing a toothpaste that your child enjoys using makes all the difference. Children’s toothpastes come in fun flavors like strawberry, bubblegum, or watermelon, making brushing time a routine that is eagerly anticipated. If your child is old enough, consider involving them in choosing their toothpaste flavor so they can choose something they will love.
Avoid Harsh Ingredients
Children’s gums and teeth are more sensitive than those of adults, so it is essential to avoid toothpaste with undesirable ingredients that can irritate them. Check options that are free from sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), an ingredient commonly found in adult toothpaste that can irritate the mouth. Avoid toothpaste with artificial colors or sweeteners, as natural toothpaste options made with kid-friendly and safe ingredients are increasingly available.
Begin Early and Make Brushing Fun
Beginning good oral health care habits early on will help set your child up for success. Start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as their first tooth breaks through, using age-appropriate toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, until they are old enough to use a toothbrush with a more advanced design. Establishing a consistent brushing routine from the start will help your child get used to brushing. To make brushing enjoyable, you can play your favorite song for two minutes, create a reward system brushing chart, or brush your teeth at the same time. Turning it into a positive experience helps them to see brushing as an enjoyable and regular part of their day.
Bottom Line
Choosing the best toothpaste for your child is a crucial decision that impacts your child’s dental health for years to come. Consult with your Montana pediatric dentist to receive valuable advice specifically tailored to your child’s needs. Look for toothpaste with an ADA approval seal, avoid harsh ingredients, and choose a flavor that your child enjoys. Trust the professionals at Lolo Dentistry, the expert children’s dentist in the Western Montana area, to help you keep your child’s teeth healthy. There are three dental offices to serve you in Lolo, Frenchtown, and Superior for Mineral County, Montana. Call us at 406-284-8669 for more information on procedures, dentistry, reviews, and more.