Fluoride Toothpaste and Babies: Do They Mix?

teeth brush in baby mouth

Fluoridation of water in the United States was named by Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) as one of the ten greatest public health achievements of the 20th century.  Obviously, given my profession, I one hundred percent support the fluoridation of water and to go one step further, I endorse the use of fluoride toothpaste.   As a pediatric dentist, I often see kids on their first trip to the dentist.   This provides me with the unique opportunity to provide anticipatory guidance to parents with regards to oral hygiene, diet and childhood safety.  One hot topic of conversation is always whether or not a child should be using a fluoride toothpaste.  Most parents believe that their toddler can’t use fluoride toothpaste because they can’t spit properly.  However, per the current AAPD guidelines, all children under the age of three should use a smear of fluoridated toothpaste.  For children three and up, a pea sized amount of toothpaste is perfect.  For more tips on caring for your child’s oral health, check back on our weekly blog!

Sincerely,

Dr. Kathleen McCafferty
Pediatric dentist, Bedford and Needham offices

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