When it comes to your child’s health, particularly oral hygiene, proactive care is essential—even for little ones. If you’re wondering when to start using toothpaste for your baby or which type is best, we’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find expert tips from a pediatric dentist, along with our top picks for baby and toddler toothpastes.
Our Top Picks:
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Best Overall Toddler Toothpaste
Tom’s of Maine Silly Strawberry Children’s Anticavity Toothpaste (3 Pack) – Available at Target for $16.19.
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Best Tasting Toddler Toothpaste
hello Kids’ Unicorn Sparkle Bubble Gum Fluoride Toothpaste (3 Pack) – Available at Grove Collaborative for $5.99.
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Best Natural Toddler Toothpaste
Tom’s of Maine Kids Toothpaste, Blueberry (3 Pack) – Available at Amazon for $19.47.
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Best Fruit-Flavored Toddler Toothpaste
Colgate Kids Toothpaste with Anticavity Fluoride (4 Pack) – Available at Amazon for $15.96.
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Best Affordable Toddler Toothpaste
Crest Kid’s Cavity Protection Toothpaste, Sparkle Fun (3 Pack) – Available at Target for $5.29.
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Best Fluoride-Free Baby Toothpaste
Orajel Kids Paw Patrol Fluoride-Free Training Toothpaste, Natural Fruity Fun Flavor – Available at Target for $2.99.
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When to Introduce Baby Toothpaste
The belief that children don’t need toothpaste until they are two is a myth, according to Dr. Sarah Johnson, a board-certified pediatric dentist based in Seattle, Washington. “It’s crucial to use toothpaste as soon as teeth appear to help prevent decay,” she explains, aligning with the recommendations of both the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and the American Dental Association (ADA). For infants under three, start with a smear the size of a grain of rice, then increase to a pea-sized amount for children aged three to six. This helps minimize the risk of ingestion, as young children often can’t rinse and spit effectively. Remember, you’ll need to brush their teeth for them until they’re old enough to do it well.
How to Shop for Baby and Toddler Toothpaste
When choosing toothpaste, Dr. Johnson advises parents to look for products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance and a fluoride content appropriate for children. While many brands highlight their fluoride-free options, it’s important to consider that fluoride can significantly reduce the risk of cavities, as supported by Healthline. For additional insights, you can also check out our post on when to use lubrication for at-home insemination, which is another important aspect of your parenting journey.
As you navigate the world of parenting, don’t forget to explore resources like Make a Mom for at-home insemination options, and join the Make a Mom Facebook Group for support and community. If you’re interested in balancing work and family life, our guide on how to balance work and family life as a mom is a great resource.
To Summarize:
Choosing the right toothpaste for your baby or toddler is an important step in establishing good oral hygiene habits. Start introducing toothpaste as soon as teeth appear, opt for products with the ADA Seal, and consider fluoride options to prevent cavities. For more tailored advice and community support, explore the linked resources above.