When Can My Child Start Using Regular Toothpaste?

A question that many parents ask us here at Church Road Dental is, ‘at what age can their children begin using regular toothpaste?’ Children can start using a regular toothpaste when their teeth start to erupt. You need to use a toothbrush with very smooth bristles and the amount of toothpaste should be roughly similar to a grain of rice. When your child is at the age of 3, you can increase the amount of toothpaste to pea-sized. Gently brush front and back, and around your child’s teeth. It’s important to brush your child’s teeth each day until he or she is old enough to use a toothbrush.
 
Fluoride And Dental Fluorosis
 
It is important to make sure that the toothpaste your child uses is free of sodium lauryl sulphate, preservatives, and artificial colours. Make sure that the child can spit and rinse properly without assistance. Fluoride-free toothpaste is a good choice, so children won’t ingest any fluoride. If your child ingests fluoride regularly, it could lead to dental fluorosis, which will cause problems in dental development. Dental fluorosis is indicated by spots or brown discolouration on the tooth surface.
 
Baby Tooth Brushing Techniques
 
It is a good idea for you to get a helping hand when brushing the teeth of your baby. You should sit your baby on their knee and rest his head against their chest. Use the correct amount of toothpaste, depending on the age of the baby and the number of teeth that have erupted. For toddlers who can already stand up, stand behind them, and tilt their head backwards. Be sure to brush their baby’s teeth twice a day, preferably after a meal or before bed. Be sure to brush your baby’s teeth for two minutes. Dentists recommend to brush in small circles and be sure to cover all the surfaces.
 
Unfortunately, some children are not too keen on getting their teeth brushed. It’s important for parents not to get stressed out if their plan for tooth brushing doesn’t go quite to plan. Babies can be initially less receptive to getting their teeth brushed. The most important thing is to gradually make the habit become a routine. It’s a good idea to let the toddler hold the toothbrush, so he feels more in control. This could encourage your child to brush teeth on his own.
 
Contact Church Road Dental
 
To learn more, contact Church Road Dental today and speak with a knowledgeable dental representative who can assist you and answer any questions you might have.
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