Toothpaste Selection How do you know which toothpaste to use for your child? That would seem to be an easy question. A toothpaste that cleans their teeth, of course! Choosing a toothpaste for children goes beyond that, however. As a parent, you want to find a toothpaste for your child that they love, that is safe, and that keeps their teeth strong and healthy. Not sure what that toothpaste is? Jacobsen Pediatric Dentistry can give you some pointers on choosing the right toothpaste for children.Why It Is So DifficultIf you have watched even ½ an hour of children's tv or videos every day, you know there are a ton of toothpaste commercials on the TV. There are also ads on social media, in children's magazines, and even in family magazines! Toothpaste companies are trying to get the most people to buy their toothpaste as possible. They consciously market different kinds of toothpaste to kids. They are also trying to say that their toothpaste is the best or the healthiest. There is a lot of children's toothpaste that has more "stuff" in them than your child needs. Many children's toothpaste have all of the same ingredients as adult toothpastes do - and that is not what your child needs. Your child doesn't need a toothpaste that replaces tooth enamel or toothpaste that whitens teeth. Instead, you will want to look for a toothpaste that your child likes, and that has fluoride in it. Fluoride helps strengthen teeth and fight cavities. How to Pick A Good ToothpasteThere are some things you need to consider when you are trying to narrow down a toothpaste for your child. First, if your child is under two, they do not need a toothpaste with fluoride in it. That is because young children are at risk for swallowing too much toothpaste. When your child is under two, find a baby toothpaste without fluoride, and brush their teeth twice a day. Toddlers can use a toothpaste with fluoride in it. There are lots of different brands to choose from. You just need to make sure whatever toothpaste you choose is approved by the American Dental Association. Some parents have a really difficult time selecting a toothpaste for their children. They do not want to use fluoride on their child's teeth. You should know that while the ADA says fluoride in children is safe, there are natural toothpaste options available. Many natural toothpastes have cavity-fighting options without the fluoride. How Much Toothpaste Should I Use?Children under two should get a tiny amount of toothpaste on their toothbrush. Most dentists call it a smear. That's because if children swallow a small amount, it won't hurt them. After the age of 2, put a pea-sized drop of toothpaste on the child's toothbrush. Help them practice brushing their teeth for two minutes, twice a day. If you have questions about what kind of toothpaste to use with your child, or how often your child should brush, call Jacobsen Pediatric Dentistry at (971) 459-2431. Let us help you figure out what toothpaste might work best for your child. Also, we will be happy to brainstorm ways to get your child to brush for two minutes. We see much dancing and singing in your future! |
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