Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that's found in almost all sources of water. Although some people think that it's unnecessary, fluoride can help prevent cavities, decrease oral bacteria, prevent tooth decay, and even strengthen enamel. Therefore, it's a great way to supplement your child's dental care and help them protect their teeth from an early age. With that being said, there are a couple of safety tips for children using fluoride toothpaste. 

3 Tips for Fluoride Dental Care and Kids

1. Only Use a Small Amount

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under three only use a small sliver of fluoride toothpaste that's about the size of a grain of rice. This should only be done once their teeth come in, and performed with care to minimize swallowing. 

They recommend that children ages three to six use only a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste to brush. Again, swallowing the toothpaste should be avoided, but this amount won't cause harm if ingested by accident. 

2. Choose the Right Size Toothbrush

Your child's toothbrush size is another important factor in dental care. Choosing the right size can help your child target their teeth without introducing any risks of choking. Although there are several different types of children's toothbrushes available to choose from, it's best to work with your children's dentist to determine the bristle type and brush size that will be best for your kids. 

3. Supervise While They Brush

Finally, always supervise your children when they brush their teeth. During their younger years, put the toothpaste on their brushes yourself to ensure that they don't have too much. As they get older, you can supervise them doing it. 

It should also be noted that children up until the age of six or seven usually don't have the proper coordination to brush their teeth sufficiently on their own, so consider taking responsibility and doing it for them until they learn. If they want to try, just make sure you watch to ensure that they're covering all of the different surfaces of their teeth for healthy dental care.

To supplement your daily dental care at home, schedule regular checkups with the team at Carolyn B. Crowell, DMD & Associates, in Avon, OH. This pediatric dentistry practice is committed to bringing premier oral health care and orthodontic services to children of all ages. They use kid-friendly language and techniques to help alleviate apprehension and provide good experiences that will help them develop a positive relationship with a dental visit. To learn more about their range of services, visit their website, or call (440) 934-0149 to schedule an appointment today.