There’s no doubt about it – getting your toddler to brush their teeth twice a day without the right toothpaste can be very difficult. They’ll cry, scream, and throw a tantrum to avoid the toothpaste that they hate.
Here are a few tips to help you find the right toothpaste for your toddler:
1. Look for the ADA seal
Other than asking your caring Dallas Dental Wellness team for toothpaste suggestions, go with a toothpaste with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. Their seal of approval can be found both on the box and tube, indicating that the product has been tested for its safety and effectiveness.
2. Stay away from abrasive ingredients
There are a lot of toothpaste which have harsh abrasives. While helpful for removing stains and plaque, some toothpaste may contain ingredients that are not kid-friendly. For instance, a toothpaste that is marketed for its ‘whitening’ properties contain abrasives that can damage your toddler’s tooth enamel.
3. Consider the flavor
This is a non-health related issue; but kids can be coaxed into brushing with ‘fun’ toothpaste flavors. Children can be choosy, and a lot of kids find the traditional flavors such as mint to be ‘spicy’ and would often prefer the more kid-friendly options.
4. Be sure to check for fluoride
Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps fortify the tooth enamel and guard it against decay. Just be sure to have your child spit out the toothpaste. Too much of this ingredient can cause dental fluorosis, which is characterized by white streaks on the teeth.
Remember, only a small amount is needed. Children do not need a lot of toothpaste, so don’t be tempted into squeezing a lot that it covers the entire brush. A pea-sized amount will do. For children under age 3, a smear of toothpaste will suffice.
Toothpaste can vary from tube to tube. If you need help in choosing a toothpaste that is effective yet gentle enough for your toddler, get in touch with us at Dallas Dental Wellness.
