If there is a subject that worries many of us, it is knowing how to take good care and maintain proper oral hygiene for our little ones. For this reason, the subject of toothpaste for children is one that raises many doubts.
But don’t worry, today we are going to solve some of them.
Toothpaste for children: When should I start using toothpaste for my children’s oral care?
Good question.
As we have already said in our blog on several occasions, maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential for good oral health. Especially because our friends teeth are our friends for life.
It is therefore very important to start taking care of your health from the very beginning.
Normally, our little ones’ teeth start to come in at around 6 months of age. At around 3 years of age, they should have their full set of teeth, their 20 teeth already grown in.
Of course, we must keep in mind that each one of us is different, as we have said many times before, so the growth rate may vary from one child to another.
After the milk teeth come the permanent teeth, which begin to erupt around the age of 6. But, make no mistake, baby teeth are just as important as permanent teeth.
So the million dollar question is: when should I start taking care of my child’s oral health?
– From birth: Maintaining good oral health is essential from the very beginning. This will save them a lot of inconvenience in the future. So, during the first few days after your little one is born, start wiping his or her gums with a clean, damp gauze pad. A cavity can develop even as soon as the first tooth erupts.
– When your first tooth comes in: At that time, you can continue to use the gauze or a soft bristle brush twice a day. You must clean them very carefully, but without being overwhelmed. Things with patience are always better.
– From the age of one: Buy a soft-bristled children’s toothbrush with a small brush head so that you can start brushing your child’s teeth after every meal, especially after dinner. Thus, we help to remove food debris, to generate the habit for your little ones, since at this age they are sponges and absorb all the knowledge; and, most important of all, to prevent the appearance of cavities.
– Between the ages of 3 and 6 years: Start letting him/her brush his/her teeth alone for the first minute and do it yourself for the second minute to ensure proper cleaning. Carefully and twice a day, morning and evening. It is important to supervise them so that they do it properly and so that you indicate to them that they should not swallow the paste. Also, if your dentist gives you other brushing instructions, remember to always follow them.
Toothpaste for children: Fluoride or non-fluoride?
Fluoride in contact with teeth is a great protective element, being very effective in the prevention of caries. Likewise, it is also true that consuming more than the recommended amounts can cause fluorosis, an impairment of enamel maturation that produces stains on the teeth.
Likewise, there are several studies and scientific evidences that recommend the use of fluoride toothpaste with 1000 ppmF (parts per million of fluoride) from the first tooth eruption. This is supported by important scientific societies such as the British NHS or the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Therefore, it is important to know the right amount of fluoride in children’s toothpaste according to the age of our children:
– Between 6 months and 2 years: Toothpastes up to 1000 ppmF fluoride can be used.
– Between 2 and 6 years of age: Toothpastes with 1000 to 1450 ppmF of fluoride.
– Over 6 years: Toothpastes with 1450 ppmF fluoride.
Toothpaste for children: How much toothpaste should I put on my child’s toothbrush?
This is another of the doubts we have when we start brushing the teeth of the little ones at home. And to solve it, we leave you with this infographic we have prepared.
When should I go to the dentist with my child?
The Spanish Society of Pediatric Dentistry (SEOII) recommends that, if there are no previous anomalies,a good time to visit the dentist is when the teeth begin to erupt.
When they begin to emerge, regular visits to the dentist and pediatrician are highly recommended. And, during the change from baby teeth to permanent teeth, it is essential to see a specialist.
In addition, regular visits should be maintained throughout childhood and adolescence to ensure proper oral health.
In Cervantes Dental Clinic we care about the dental health of children, so we advise you properly and personally in the case of your child.
As we have said, each of us is different, so our case is different. For this reason, personalized and attentive service is our daily routine.
In addition, we have an orthodontist exclusively for the little ones, so if you need it, just call or write us, we will be happy to assist you.
We also have the Family Health Plan of Clínica Dental Cervantes which is an oral-dental health plan that aims to promote the dental health of the family unit.
What other questions do you have? What other measures do you take for the brushing and oral hygiene of the little ones at home?
Smile is a universal language. Come to our
dental clinic in Granada
and we will advise you. First appointment free of charge! 
