At What Stage Should My Child Begin Using Regular Toothpaste?
Posted on 6/19/2023 by Artistic Smiles
Before 18 months, toothpaste is typically unnecessary, but teeth can still be cleaned with a toothbrush or by wiping them down. Choosing the appropriate type of toothpaste for children is essential, but it may not be as crucial as you believe. The active element in toothpaste that prevents tooth decay is fluoride, and there is a relatively slight variance among the most popular brands in this regard. Children's toothpaste typically contains a modest quantity of fluoride, and variations in the formulation have more to do with texture and flavor than health. Intriguingly, the percentage of fluoride in children's toothpaste does not vary between the different chlid age groups or "stages."
Can you Use the Toothpaste Before The First Tooth
It is OK to brush without toothpaste starting at age one or when the first tooth comes in. This keeps baby bottle tooth decay from happening. Kids should never sleep with a bottle, and parents should try to keep pacifiers or bottles from becoming a long-term habit.
You will want to help your child learn how to brush their teeth right from the start to avoid cavities. Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride-free, kid-safe toothpaste on children aged 2 to 5. The child will need help brushing, and you should tell them to spit out the toothpaste. As was already said, once your child can spit after brushing, they can switch to fluoride toothpaste.
How Often Should the Child Brush Teeth
No matter how old they are, all kids should brush their teeth twice a day and floss once daily. This keeps gum tissue healthy and keeps teeth from getting cavities. Make sure your child goes to the dentist at least once every six months so you can keep an eye on their growth, development, and overall oral health.
Call us or make an appointment if you have questions about your child's oral health. We are happy to be a resource for you as you try to teach your child how to take care of his or her teeth.
Before 18 months, toothpaste is typically unnecessary, but teeth can still be cleaned with a toothbrush or by wiping them down. Choosing the appropriate type of toothpaste for children is essential, but it may not be as crucial as you believe. The active element in toothpaste that prevents tooth decay is fluoride, and there is a relatively slight variance among the most popular brands in this regard. Children's toothpaste typically contains a modest quantity of fluoride, and variations in the formulation have more to do with texture and flavor than health. Intriguingly, the percentage of fluoride in children's toothpaste does not vary between the different chlid age groups or "stages."