Toothbrushing is one of the most important tasks for good oral health. When looking for a toothpaste for your child make sure to pick one that is recommended by the American Dental Association. These toothpastes have undergone testing to insure they are safe to use. Use a "pea size" amount of toothpaste and have your child spit after brushing. Parents are often concerned about the nocturnal grinding of teeth (Bruxism).

Any fluoridated toothpaste that is recognized by the American Dental Association is recommended. (However, children under three should not generally use a fluoridated toothpaste -- they should use a non-fluoridated infant toothpaste or simply water.) » Return to Top

ANSWER: A fluoridated toothpaste that is recognized by the American Dental Association, as being effective in reducing tooth decay should be used. Equally as important as the toothpaste is the thoroughness with which the plaque is removed by brushing and flossing. Children aged three years and younger should not use a fluoridated toothpaste; please select a non-fluoridated infant toothpaste.

Put a small pea-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste across the brush of a childs toothbrush. Apply the toothpaste across the width of the brush, instead of the length. Yes, but currently only 30% of Californians have it. Click here to see if you have it. The map is a general guide and does not include areas that receive fluoride naturally. Call the local water supplier for more specific information.

Fluoridated toothpaste should be used twice per day with a minimum amount of water used to rinse the mouth after brushing. excessive swallowing of toothpaste by young children may result in dental fluorosis, children under 6 years of age should be supervised during brushing and only use a small amount (e.g. pea-sized portion) of toothpaste. Children under 3 years of age should have their teeth brushed by an adult using only a smear of toothpaste.

The most important part of brushing your teeth is the technique used. Toothpaste is important for what it supplies, fluoride and tartar control. Be careful of the whitening brands because some are abrasive and they can remove enamel from teeth. After testing numerous brushes myself I have concluded that electric if used is the best. We usually recommend electric toothbrushes because of their design, ease of use, and availability. There are numerous models on the market that work well.

We recommend that you use any ADA approved toothpaste. Look for the ADA symbol on the tube to identify their approval.

Do not use fluoridated toothpaste until age 3. Earlier than that, clean your child's teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. After age 3, parents should supervise brushing. Use no more than a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and make sure children do not swallow excess toothpaste.