What’s the best Toothpaste for Kids?
Above all else, visiting the dentist regularly is one of the most significant steps you can take to ensuring your child achieves optimum oral health, which aides in their overall wellbeing. Picking a toothpaste is an important factor, when it comes to getting children to brush and take care of their teeth daily. Toothpaste companies actively market packaging, flavors and features to encourage parents and children in making their selection. As a result, assessing the many brands of toothpaste claiming to be the “best” can be an overwhelming task for parents. Although, all brands are not the same, many carry the same ingredients to remove stains, eliminate plaque and strengthen tooth enamel. The key differences between brands is the consistency of the paste, taste and the level of fluoride content.
The most important thing to consider when choosing your child’s toothpaste is the child’s age. Before the age of two, select fluoride-free baby toothpaste and use a soft brush to clean the teeth twice daily. Between the ages of two and four, select an ADA approved brand containing fluoride. Dental fluorosis is not a risk for kids over eight years of age, but an ADA recommended brand is always the best choice.
Here’s a list of kid-friendly toothpastes that the American Dental Association approve:
- Crest® Pro-Health Stages® Disney Princess Toothpaste – This toothpaste provides effective cavity protection, and the mild gel formula has been kid tested and approved. The packaging features Disney characters, which appeal to younger children.
- Aquafresh® Fresh ‘N Fruity – The mild flavor of this toothpaste makes it a great transition toothpaste for toddlers. It gently cleans vulnerable new teeth and includes fluoride for cavity protection. This toothpaste is suitable for children two years and older; supervised use is recommended.
- Colgate Children’s 2-in-1 toothpaste – This toothpaste is approved by the ADA and best suited for children over the age of five. It is a liquid gel formula that is popular with kids and comes in a variety of flavors to suit their tastes. It provides dual benefits as both a toothpaste and a mouthwash that protects your kids’ teeth against cavities.
- Tom’s of Maine, Natural Anti-Cavity Toothpaste for Children – This toothpaste provides an active defense system against bacteria and acids. There are no artificial preservative, dyes or saccharine in this toothpaste and it contains real fruit juice for taste.
When teaching your children to brush, parents of children under the age of seven need to ensure they use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and caution them to minimize toothpaste swallowing.
If you are uncertain about the suitability of any dental care products on the market for your children contact your pediatric dentist today. Dr. Niang and Dr. Balsmeier of Children’s Dental Specialty Group are happy to help and answer any questions you may have.
