There are a lot of products to choose from, and much of the decision depends on individual preference. A fluoride toothpaste is essential for optimal oral health. Your dentist can alert you to any other features that make one product more suitable than another for you as an individual.

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

Fluoridated toothpaste should be introduced when a child is 2-3 years of age. Prior to that, parents should clean the child's teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. When toothpaste is used after age 2-3, parents should supervise brushing and make sure the child uses no more than a pea-sized amount on the brush. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.

There are a lot of products to choose from, and much of the decision depends on individual preference. A fluoride toothpaste is essential for optimal oral health. Beyond that, your dental hygienist and dentist can alert you to any other features that make one product more suitable than another for you as an individual.

It's probably best not to use a whitening toothpaste until after your braces come off. If you use a whitening toothpaste on a daily basis, the teeth underneath the brackets may not be as white as the rest of your teeth when your braces come off!

No, this product will work more effectively if you do not use toothpaste or mouthwash. Both toothpaste and mouthwash have warning labels on them due to the potentially harmful ingredients in them. Check out our free report .