When your child begins to get her first baby teeth, it's natural, as a parent, to start thinking about the best way to care for them so she can have healthy teeth and gums as she gets older. However, children have special needs that make caring for their teeth different from how you care for your own. The toothpaste you use to brush your little one's teeth can make a big difference to her overall oral health. There are many types of toddler toothpaste on the market, but it may be hard to know which the best is for your child. Here are a few criteria that all parents should look for when selecting a toothpaste.
Contains Fluoride
Fluoride is important for healthy teeth and primarily helps to prevent tooth decay. Fluoride toothpaste should be used once a child is able to spit the toothpaste out after brushing under parental guidance. Fluoride is often present in tap water, so your toddler may be receiving an adequate amount through drinking water alone. Consult your dentist on whether your child is ready for a fluoride toothpaste.
Kid-friendly Flavours
Fun flavours like strawberry and watermelon can help your child enjoy the experience of brushing teeth. There are usually a few varieties to choose from, so try several to see which toddler toothpaste flavours your child likes. Remember, children can be choosy and will let you know if they don't like a certain flavour of toothpaste, so be prepared to buy a few different varieties until you find one your kid likes.
Only a Small Amount is Needed
You may be tempted to squeeze out enough toothpaste to cover the whole brush, but children don't need very much toothpaste because their teeth are so small. A small amount, about the size of a pea, is what is recommended by dental professionals.
While reading labels can provide a lot of information, it is always a good idea to consult your dentist on toothpaste recommendations for your child. To encourage your child to brush her teeth with Mum and Dad, you may want to use a daily chart to monitor her progress and provide your child with rewards for reaching certain milestones. Not only does this make the process more fun for her, it also helps you ensure that she is staying on track with her dental care.
