Fluoride for Kids? Is it recommended?

Fluoride for kids is one of the most controversial topics we come across in the dental world. A question a lot of parents ask is, “Dr. what do you recommend about fluoride for my child?”

There is a lot of misinformation on the internet, that it can be hard to determine how much or even if fluoride is ok for your child. To clarify, when we’re talking about fluoride, we are talking about toothpaste. And fluoride should be viewed as a different entity and product from shampoo, conditioner etc… Fluoride should be viewed as medication, and just as with any medication, you need to follow the instructions directed in the usage, such as dosing etc…

Too much of any medication is not good for you. You would not give a child the same amount of Tylenol as you would a full-grown adult. With the same measure, fluoride for children needs to be measured and dosed appropriately.

It has been established by countless research that teeth can most definitely benefit from fluoride. The next question is safety, and dosing helps to keep your child safe.

The biggest concern most parents have with using fluoride toothpaste for their children is that kids will be kids and they will more than likely swallow the toothpaste. That is why it is important that when children are brushing their teeth, that there is a parent or responsible adult supervising, you want to make sure they are brushing all areas properly and using the correct amount of toothpaste.

Instructions on fluoride toothpaste for kids

Use kids toothpaste

Brand is not important
It shouldn’t taste too good or sweet

Dosing

Use a pea size amount for a child who is 6 years of age or older. If they swallow it will not be harmful to them.
Use half a pea size for a child 3 years or older. Now most kids that age will swallow, but if you dose it correctly, then they are safe.
Use a grain of rice size (a smear) for a 1-year-old. At that age they end up swallowing the toothpaste, but since it is such a small amount, they will not be harmed.

In conclusion, fluoride for kids is safe as long as you dose it correctly and it’s used under with supervision.

Here is another good article on what age can your child brush on their own.

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To be honest there isn’t too much of a difference between floss for children and adult flossers. Flossers for kids can tend to be more colorful and look more appealing to children which can be a big plus, especially in encouraging your child to floss.

But at the end of the day, floss is floss.

Types of Floss

Classic Floss String

Classic floss string whether it be flavored or unflavored is our preferred choice as it is the most effective flosser to use. But for children, especially younger children, it is very difficult to use. A parent’s hand is too big to get into their tiny little mouths especially around the molars.

Floss Sticks

Floss sticks are not typically marketed for children. The pro on these type of flossers is that it is a bit more environmentally conscious, since it has a much smaller plastic head that we have to dispense. Although with children it might be difficult to keep track of where they left it, since it is a bit small.

Angled flossers or floss picks

Angled flossers or floss picks are probably the most popular for kids. There are many different types and brands that you can choose from. When choosing you want to consider the length of the floss itself. It depends on your flossing style, if it’s smaller you have to be pretty precise. Then there is the thickness of the floss, when the floss is thin it can slide between the teeth quite easily. However, the drawback is if a child has close contacts between their teeth, you can accidently jab into a child’s gums which would cause some discomfort. Resulting in perhaps a “pause” from flossing.

In conclusion, find a flosser that works well in you, as a parent’s, hands. It likely can be a flosser with a bit thicker string. It might go down as easy, but you do have more control.

In addition, you may have noticed some fluoride coated flossers, but we haven’t come across any data that would recommend or not recommend these products. It’s up to you if you want to dish out those couple extra bucks for those type of flossers.

Do you have a question regarding your child’s oral health? Click here to submit your question to #AskDrJ

Tag: dental tips for kids

Fluoride for Kids? Is it recommended?

Fluoride for Kids? Is it recommended?