Which toothpaste is best for children?
Most toothpastes have the same amount of fluoride, however the ones that do not are often marked ‘natural’. We recommend along with the ADA, and AAPD flouride toothpaste for adults and children two years and older. For small children, we recommend a rice- sized amount of toothpaste on the brush, so that if the child swallows it, the minimal amount will not cause any harm. Fluoride is the most important ingredient in toothpaste; preventing cavities. Be sure to check for the ADA seal on your toothpaste, attesting to the flouride content.
So, which toothpaste is the best? For the children we see in our practice, the one we recommend to them is the one they like the best, or in other words, the one they are motivated to use. It’s all about the marketing of famous cartoon characters, plus the color, smell, and taste. Some kids, usually very young ones, don’t like any kind of toothpaste. You can still clean their teeth with a toothbrush and floss, but the advantage of the fluoride is not there. Most toothpastes marketed to children have the same fluoride content (1000 ppm) as adult toothpastes, but often have bubblegum or other flavors that appeal to children–and sparkles! Adults tend to prefer the minty flavors.
So, what is your favorite toothpaste? How does Bacon flavored toothpaste sound?
