Too many young kids are using too much toothpaste, increasing their risk of streaky or splotchy teeth when they get older. About 40 percent of kids ages 3 to 6 used a brush that was full or half-full of toothpaste, even though experts recommend no more than a pea-sized amount. Recommended that all people drink fluoridated water and that everyone 2 or older brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. But the amount is important. Children under 3 are only supposed to use a smear of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice.
Kids 3 to 6 are supposed to keep it to a pea-sized amount. “Fluoride is a wonderful benefit but it needs to be used carefully." Young kids may push for independence in brushing their teeth, but kids’ toothpaste tastes sweet. “You don’t want them eating it like food. “We want the parent to be in charge of the toothbrush and the toothpaste.” Fluoride is a mineral found in…
