There are so many options in the toothpaste aisle these days. Where do you start when it comes to selecting a toothpaste for your child? Regular visits to your Somerville pediatric dentist can help you make the decision. The right toothpaste can help keep your child’s smile healthy.

Toothpaste is an important part of oral health because it helps to remove bacteria and biofilm that causes decay and gingivitis. It also helps to keep your little one’s breath fresh. Fluoride is a naturally occurring miineral that is added to toothpaste to help heal, remineralize, and protect enamel. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children should brush their teeth for two minutes twice a day to promote a cavity free smile.

Dr. Kane and the hygiene experts at The Children’s Dental Center in Somerville, New Jersey can help you select the right toothpaste for your child. Selecting the appropriate paste is dependent on several factors. If your child is unable to spit and may be at risk for swallowing paste, it is important to only use a smear layer to brush your child’s teeth. The smear layer can be compared to the size of a grain of rice. Once your child can control spitting, you can transition to an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste.

It’s also fun to have your child pick their own special toothpaste during your next shopping trip. This encourages your child to be excited about keeping their smile cavity free.

It is a good idea to call your local central New Jersy pediatric dentist to help you select a paste based on specific factors to your child. We are happy to help and serve Somerville, Bridgewater, Raritan, Branchburg, and Hillsborough neighborhoods.

Schedule an appointment in our Somerville pediatric dental office today. Smile proud!