Tooth decay is the most common childhood disease — more than 16 million children suffer from it each year, costing over 51 million school hours annually. The right toothpaste is one of the simplest ways to help protect your child’s smile.
✓What to Look for in a Kids’ Toothpaste
You can help prevent cavities by choosing a toothpaste that works for your child’s smile. Here are the four things that matter most when you’re standing in the toothpaste aisle:
The ADA Seal of Approval
Look for the American Dental Association’s seal on the box. The ADA’s stringent testing helps ensure you’re buying a product that actually works.
Fluoride
The ADA has recommended fluoride toothpaste for over half a century. Just make sure your child spits it all out and rinses well — swallowing too much can lead to fluorosis.
Avoid Harsh Abrasives
Mild abrasives lift stains, but too much can wear down enamel. Skip whitening toothpastes with calcium carbonate, silica gels, aluminum oxides, magnesium carbonate, or silicates.
Enjoyable Flavors
Mint can feel too “spicy” for sensitive palates. Kid-friendly flavors like berry and bubblegum — often with favorite characters on the tube — make it easier to brush twice a day.
✨ Begin a Good Cleaning Routine Early
No teeth yet? You can still clean your toddler’s gums with a clean, damp cloth, gently wiping away residual food. Doing this improves the health of the baby teeth about to erupt and familiarizes your child with oral care early in life.
?Does Your Child Brush Twice per Day?
To prevent cavities and tooth decay, your child should brush twice per day for two minutes at a time and floss once daily. If they mention sensitive or painful teeth, visit our office for further evaluation — our team will check for signs of trouble and build a treatment plan for a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Explore ourpreventive care servicesto learn more.
The Daily Smile Routine
2× a day brushing • 2 minutes each time • 1× daily flossing. Consistency is what keeps little smiles cavity-free.
Board-Certified Doctors
Our specialists make dental visits a positive, happy experience for children of all ages.
Amberly Drive Office
Office Hours:
Mon - Thu: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: Closed