Toothpaste

Dental professionals caring for children's oral health

Fluoride toothpaste is proven to help prevent tooth decay. You should start brushing with a fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first teeth come through.

Toothpaste is not a food group and should not be deliberately eaten. Although children will inevitably swallow a small quantity of toothpaste while brushing, this will not be a problem if you follow these recommendations.

1. Keep toothpaste and fluoride tablets out of the reach of young children.
2. Discuss your child's caries risk with your dentist, and use the recommended type of toothpaste for your child’s age and caries risk.
3. Measure out the correct amount of toothpaste when required. A rice grain until age two, and a pea size after age two.
4. Push the toothpaste down into the bristles before brushing.
5. Supervise your child while they are brushing. Children under the age of 8 years need your help to get their teeth really clean.
6. Children should be encouraged to spit after brushing. If they can’t spit, use a tissue to gently wipe away the excess toothpaste foam

How much toothpaste?

Use a rice grain size smear until age 2, and a pea size blob until age six