It might seem easier to hand your child the same toothpaste you use — especially when you’re rushing to get everyone out the door. But did you know that adult toothpaste isn’t suitable for young children? In fact, using the wrong type of toothpaste at an early age can do more harm than good.
Children have different dental needs at every stage of development, and using adult-strength toothpaste too early can put their growing smiles at risk. In this article, we’ll explain why children should use age-appropriate toothpaste, when it’s safe to make the switch, and what to look for when choosing the right one.
The Main Difference: Fluoride Levels
The biggest difference between children’s and adult toothpaste is the level of fluoride, a natural mineral that helps protect teeth from decay.
While fluoride is essential for strong, healthy teeth, too much fluoride at a young age can lead to a condition called dental fluorosis. This occurs when developing teeth are exposed to excess fluoride, resulting in white streaks or mottling on the enamel. In more severe cases, it can cause brown spots or pitted enamel.
Children are particularly vulnerable to fluorosis because:
- Their permanent teeth are still developing under the gums
- They’re more likely to swallow toothpaste rather than spit it out
- They may not have full control over brushing techniques or amounts
That’s why most children’s toothpastes contain a lower concentration of fluoride than adult versions — enough to protect the teeth, without the risk of overexposure.
When Should Kids Start Using Toothpaste?
Dental care should begin early — even before the first tooth appears. Here’s a general guideline:
- 0–18 months: No toothpaste is needed. Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a damp cloth or a soft infant toothbrush and water.
- 18 months to 6 years: Use a low-fluoride children’s toothpaste (usually containing around 500–600 ppm of fluoride). Use a small, pea-sized amount and supervise brushing to make sure it isn’t swallowed.
- 6 years and over: Most children can transition to a standard fluoride toothpaste (around 1000–1450 ppm), as they’ve typically developed the ability to spit properly and understand safe brushing habits.
It’s important to note that every child is different. If your child is at high risk of decay or has special dental needs, we may recommend a different routine. Always feel free to ask us for personalised guidance.
Why Supervision Matters
Even with the right toothpaste, supervision plays a critical role. Until around the age of 8, children lack the fine motor skills to brush effectively on their own. That means they need help to ensure they’re brushing correctly — and safely.
Key tips for parents:
- Always dispense the toothpaste yourself
- Encourage your child to spit, not swallow
- Brush together when possible, so they can learn good habits by watching you
- Make brushing fun with songs, timers, or colourful brushes
How to Choose the Right Toothpaste for Your Child
When shopping for children’s toothpaste, the packaging can be overwhelming. From sparkles and fruit flavours to cartoon characters, there’s no shortage of options. But the most important things to look for are:
✅ Fluoride content appropriate for your child’s age
✅ ADA Seal of Approval — this ensures the toothpaste meets safety and effectiveness standards
✅ Mild flavour — mint can be too strong for some children, but avoid toothpastes that taste too much like food, which may encourage swallowing
You should also avoid any toothpaste that claims to “whiten” or remove stains — these often contain abrasives that are too harsh for children’s enamel.
What If Your Child Swallows Toothpaste?
A small amount of swallowed toothpaste now and then isn’t a major concern, especially if it’s a children’s formula. However, regularly swallowing large amounts of adult-strength toothpaste can lead to fluorosis or stomach upset.
If your child struggles to spit or enjoys the taste too much, consider switching to a fluoride-free toothpaste until they’ve mastered the skill — but make sure to check with us first, as we may still recommend a low-fluoride option depending on their decay risk.
Setting Up Good Habits Early
Children who develop healthy oral hygiene habits early in life are more likely to carry those habits into adulthood. That’s why it’s so important to get the foundations right — and that starts with using the right toothpaste and teaching proper technique from the beginning.
We recommend bringing your child in for their first dental visit by their first birthday, or when their first tooth appears. From there, we can offer advice on brushing, diet, and fluoride needs tailored to your child’s development.
We’re Here for Every Stage of Your Child’s Smile
Choosing the right toothpaste might seem like a small detail, but it’s one that can have a big impact on your child’s long-term oral health. By sticking to age-appropriate products and supervising their routine, you’re giving your child the best chance at a healthy, happy smile.
Come visit us for expert advice on caring for your child’s teeth — and let’s build healthy habits together, right from the start.
