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10 Best Toothpastes For Toddlers Reviewed in 2024

last updated Nov 13, 2019

Teaching or working with a toddler to brush their teeth can be a challenging task. Even if they loved brushing their teeth as a baby, now it can be a completely different story. Dentist suggests that toddlers brush their teeth twice a day and without toothpaste that they like it can really be a struggle. When trying to get them to brush regularly the last night you want to worry about is the toothpaste formula. We have created a list of gentle toddler toothpaste that will actually make them enjoy the experience. The list includes the Top Toddlers Toothpastes that have been reviewed and researched. These are our picks.

In a Hurry? The test winner after 22 hrs of research

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Colgate Cavity Protection
90/100 our score
Effectiveness
90
Protection
90
Brand
93
Materials
87
Colgate Cavity Protection
Why is it better?

Fun flavor

Fight cavities

Dentist recommended brand

Helps promote fresh breath

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Colgate Cavity Protection
Test Winner: Colgate Cavity Protection
Amazon Link
Researched Sources
38
Researched Sources
Reviews Considered
177
Reviews Considered
Hours Researching
22
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
17
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Angeline Mirenda:

With all of our top picks still fully-stocked and performing at the top of the market, we used this opportunity to elaborate on many of the featured evaluations of our top ten toddler toothpastes. We also added new images to ensure that each product has at least three pictures to browse, when available. You’ll find new information about the brands, effectiveness, protection, and materials of nearly all of our top choices.

Sorting Options
Effectiveness Protection Brand Materials Price Range By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90
Effectiveness
90 %
Protection
90 %
Brand
93 %
Materials
87 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
Effectiveness
90 %
Protection
80 %
Brand
85 %
Materials
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
$7.89
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
Effectiveness
90 %
Protection
80 %
Brand
85 %
Materials
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
Effectiveness
85 %
Protection
90 %
Brand
80 %
Price Range
75 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
Effectiveness
85 %
Protection
80 %
Brand
75 %
Materials
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
$4.49
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
Effectiveness
85 %
Protection
80 %
Brand
75 %
Materials
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
$17.98
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
Effectiveness
85 %
Protection
80 %
Brand
75 %
Materials
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
$4.99
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
Effectiveness
85 %
Protection
80 %
Brand
75 %
Materials
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
$15.99
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
Effectiveness
85 %
Protection
80 %
Brand
75 %
Materials
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
$9.29
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
78.3
Effectiveness
83 %
Protection
75 %
Brand
75 %
Materials
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (09.12.24)
Amazon Link
$6.99

10 Best Toddler Toothpastes Reviewed

1. Colgate Cavity Protection

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
90
colgate cavity protection toddler toothpaste
colgate cavity protection toddler toothpaste back
colgate cavity protection toddler toothpaste drug facts
Amazon Link
Effectiveness
90
Protection
90
Brand
93
Materials
87
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Fun flavor

Fight cavities

Dentist recommended brand

Helps promote fresh breath

Tubes are smaller than standard size

With a sweet, light “Bubble Fruit” flavor, Colgate Cavity Protection is a favorite among kids and parents. Parents can trust that it gets the job done: the fluoride helps clean teeth and protect against cavities. Meanwhile, kids love the way it tastes which keeps them coming back for more!

Read more

Effectiveness

Fluoride can be unsafe for children to swallow, especially in large amounts, hence why many training pastes and gels don’t include it. But once children are old enough to brush responsibly, toothpaste with fluoride is more effective in keeping teeth clean and healthy.

Protection

Help kids fight cavities by equipping them with a toothpaste that they’ll want to use again and again. Colgate Cavity Protection gets the job done and makes it enjoyable at the same time!

Brand

Colgate has been a leading brand in the industry since 1873. You’ve likely used a Colgate product at some point in your life and many dentists recommend it as one of the top choices out there!

Materials

With .24% sodium fluoride as the main listed ingredient, this toothpaste uses the anti-cavity properties of its formula to help keep little mouths healthy and clean, even with all of the sugar they’re likely trying to consume.

2. Tom's of Maine Toddlers Fluoride-Free

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
tom's of maine toddlers fluoride-free toddler toothpaste
tom's of maine toddlers fluoride-free toddler toothpaste box
tom's of maine toddlers fluoride-free toddler toothpaste back
Amazon Link
Effectiveness
90
Protection
80
Brand
85
Materials
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$7.89

Fluoride-free

Mild Fruit flavor

No Dyes

Easy, mess-free top

Safe to swallow

Formulated for 3 to 24 months at which point you would need to switch to their children’s toothpaste

Some might not like the taste

Founded in 1970 due to a lack of natural products, Tom's of Maine has strived to be a leader in sustainable natural products for a sustainable healthy lifestyle. They were the first to introduce a natural toothpaste to the world so they have certainly built a reputation for themselves.

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Effectiveness

Tom's of Maine has long been a trusted name in natural care products since 1970. There are adult products ranging from body wash, toothpaste, and deodorant.

Protection

The no mess dispensing top will keep you and baby clean when it’s time to brush their teeth. The gel provides a gentle feel to your child’s teeth and is safe if it is accidentally swallowed.

Brand

Tom’s of Maine creates all-natural healthcare products such as toothpaste, deodorant, bodywash, and more. They have lines of products manufactured especially for children, have been in business since 1970, and have been owned by Colgate-Palmolive since 2006. It was founded by two parents trying to give their children the best care with the highest-quality and most natural resources available.

Materials

Thankfully, they also have toothpaste for the wee ones. Their training toothpaste is available at commercial stores which eliminates the wait time created by having to order online. It has a picture of it that kids will love because what kid says no to a smiling crocodile? Or is it an alligator? Does it really matter with that toothy grin?

3. Babyganics Fluoride Free Strawberry

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
babyganics fluoride free strawberry toddler toothpaste
babyganics fluoride free strawberry toddler toothpaste back
babyganics fluoride free strawberry toddler toothpaste kid
Amazon Link
Effectiveness
90
Protection
80
Brand
85
Materials
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Gentle all natural plant-based toddler toothpaste

Safe enough for toddlers to even swallow

Gel-based formula

Effectively cleans teeth remove plaque

Promotes the development of dental health and hygiene

Toothpaste is not favored with any sweet tasting additives

Gel is very thin, hard to keep on the brush

Toddlers have a whole new world to explore the last thing that you want to have to worry about is their toothpaste. This toothpaste has been created from all natural plant-based ingredients. They are even safe for your toddler to swallow. The paste is gentle and cleans their teeth with a formula that features no dyes. development and growth of their teeth and ensure that their gums are healthy. The ingredients have no saccharin, feature no artificial colors, and have no fluoride, no sulfates, and no parabens. The brand does not test any of its products on animals.

Read more

Effectiveness

There are many training pastes on the market, but none are made with as gentle ingredients as this paste. Babyganics aids in the development and growth of their teeth and ensures that their gums are healthy. The gentle formula encourages children to brush with its peppy, fruity flavor. And since there’s no funny tingling feeling happening, fussy brushers can comfortably clean their teeth every night.

Protection

It is a gel that is completely dye free. It is effective on removing plaque. Using this toothpaste is a great way to promote healthy habits. The ingredients have no saccharin, feature no artificial colors, and have no fluoride, no sulfates, and no parabens. The brand does not test any of its products on animals. Some children have had allergic reactions to this, so keep an eye out for the first few days.

Brand

In a world where you are worried about so many things, the last thing you should worry about is the toothpaste you are using on your toddler. This fluoride-free gel and all natural plant-based toothpaste is a great choice.

Materials

The plant-based toothpaste is free of fluoride and many other chemicals that are featured in the adult’s toothpaste. It is so gentle that it is even safe for your toddler to swallow.

4. Hello Oral Care Fluoride Blue Raspberry

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
hello oral care fluoride blue raspberry toddler toothpaste
hello oral care fluoride blue raspberry toddler toothpaste pack
hello oral care fluoride blue raspberry toddler toothpaste ingredients
Amazon Link
Effectiveness
85
Protection
90
Brand
80
Price Range
75
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Vegan

No dyes or preservatives

Great taste

Not too minty

Prevents cavities

Hard to open top

Can cause intestinal upset if swallowed

Getting your child to brush his or her teeth can be a stress-free process with the Hello Oral Care Fluoride Toothpaste. The toothpaste is composed of natural ingredients that prevent cavities, brighten teeth, and strengthen enamel.

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Effectiveness

The silica blend in this gently polishes teeth while stevia sweetens the formula just enough to encourage children to actively pursue their own oral hygiene. Certain flavors do contain fluoride, so read carefully when selecting. Some users report that it’s best to use in the morning and throughout the day, as you won’t wake up with a clean-feeling mouth should you use this before bed.

Protection

A lot of kids do not like mint. Many kids' toothpastes that are fruit-flavored have preservatives and are harsh on the teeth. Hello is formulated differently and they are transparent in listing their ingredients.

Brand

Hello is a small, independent crew of entrepreneurs trying to make your oral care personal and pleasant. They use responsibly sourced ingredients and materials, don’t test on animals, and strive for natural, delicious flavors. You won’t find synthetic or artificial dyes or sweeteners in any of their products.

Materials

These tasty flavors will have your child excited to brush their teeth. This toothpaste is made in America and is vegan. It’s free of artificial sweeteners, gluten, synthetic dyes, and parabens. You’ll find fluoride, xylitol, stevia, and silicon in this formula.

5. Hello Oral Care Fluoride Free Watermelon

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
hello oral care fluoride free watermelon toddler toothpaste
hello oral care fluoride free watermelon toddler toothpaste ingredients
hello oral care fluoride free watermelon toddler toothpaste features
Amazon Link
Effectiveness
85
Protection
80
Brand
75
Materials
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$4.49

No animal testing

Vegan

Transparent production practices

No additives or preservatives

Safe to swallow

The tops are not easily opened by tiny hands

Hello’s design tells you a lot about the company. They’re clean, new, and focused on quality that is sustainable and ethical. This product is vegan, safe to swallow, free of preservatives, and not tested on animals. It comes in five flavors: Watermelon, Blue Raspberry, Bubble Gum, Organic Apple, and Wild Strawberry.

Read more

Effectiveness

This is a fluoride-free paste, meaning it’s safe for kids to use even if they’re likely to swallow the glob whole. Some children don’t like the flavor though and refuse to use this paste so consider whether your child is a picky eater--or brusher.

Protection

Fluoride-free formulas have their advantages and disappointments. While this paste is safe for your child to swallow, it won’t strengthen their enamel or prevent cavities. It’s a nice little training toothpaste though and can polish up tiny mouths.

Brand

Their company philosophy is right on the product product in their company name--“hello”. In an effort to make dental care friendly, they have opted for a salutation over scare tactics. Their FAQs page is full of useful information and they are prompt in their responses to questions.

Materials

The Natural Watermelon flavor is free of fluoride, BPA, and phthalates. It’s made with erythritol, xylitol, a silica blend, and aloe vera. All of these ingredients work together to soothe gums and polish the teeth. The paste comes in a box made from 100% recycled paper with soy inks.

6. Tom's of Maine Anticavity Fluoride

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
tom's of maine anticavity fluoride toddler toothpaste
tom's of maine anticavity fluoride toddler toothpaste back
tom's of maine anticavity fluoride toddler toothpaste natural
Amazon Link
Effectiveness
85
Protection
80
Brand
75
Materials
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$17.98

It uses calcium and silica to clean teeth as opposed to chemicals

It is accepted by the American Dental Association

No artificial dyes, sweeteners or animal testing

Vegan and kosher

Safe to swallow, thick enough to learn to spit

Some kids dislike the taste

No bubbles

This toothpaste by Tom’s of Maine uses both silica and calcium to gently clean your child’s teeth. They are ADA-approved without the use of any artificial flavors, sweeteners, and dyes. The taste isn't overly sweet, nor is it too minty. It’s the perfect balance of mint and sweetness for your child.

Read more

Effectiveness

If you have been using Tom's of Maine Training toothpaste, then you already know and trust their products. If this is the case and more importantly, your children already know and trust their products.

Protection

The quality is the same as the training toothpaste, but this version looks and feels more like grown-up toothpaste. It is ADA-accepted and helps to prevent cavities in little teeth. It is safe for children to use and non-hazardous should they accidentally (or intentionally) swallow it.

Brand

In 1975, Tom’s of Maine introduced the first all-natural toothpaste onto the market. Though they became part of the Colgate-Palmolive company in 2006, their simple approach to formulas and ingredients has never changed. Tom’s gives 10% of their profit to charity and encourages employees to give 5% of their paid time to nonprofits of their choice as well.

Materials

With the children's toothpaste, there is finally a minty option to help with dragon breath. As with all Tom's of Maine products, there are no hidden chemicals or additives.

7. Orajel Elmo Fluoride-Free

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
orajel elmo fluoride-free toddler toothpaste
orajel elmo fluoride-free toddler toothpaste pack
orajel elmo fluoride-free toddler toothpaste ingredients
Amazon Link
Effectiveness
85
Protection
80
Brand
75
Materials
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$4.99

Fluoride free

Sugar free

Gluten free

No artificial dyes or colors

Safe to swallow

Some might find it too sweet

Might be a choking hazard

Elmo can help your tot train! This orajel training gel is meant to help children eventually transition to toothpaste and brushing their own teeth responsibly. It’s natural, safe to swallow, and free of gluten, fluoride, and sugar. It still manages to taste good so kids like it as much as parents do.

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Effectiveness

If you’re looking to get your child better at brushing their teeth, this Elmo styled toothpaste is sure to do the trick. Elmo’s friendly face can get even the most stubborn withholders onboard. Without fluoride, consider this more of a training toothpaste than a long term solution for oral hygiene.

Protection

This training gel is free of alcohol, parabens, aspartame, sugar, SLS, and dyes. It helps to remove plaque from your teeth. Orajel is the #1 pediatrician recommended brand on the market.

Brand

Orajel has oral hygiene products for adults and children alike. When marketing towards children, they use much-loved characters from television, movies, and media, to help encourage kids to brush and take care of their mouths.

Materials

It comes in fun berry flavors making it more enjoyable for young kids. There are no artificial colorings or sugar added. Technically, Orajel’s Elmo Toothpaste is ideal for introducing young children to the feel of brushing the teeth.

8. Jack N' Jill Natural Blueberry & Strawberry

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
jack n' jill natural blueberry & strawberry toddler toothpaste
jack n' jill natural banana & raspberry toddler toothpaste
jack n' jill natural banana & black currant toddler toothpaste
Amazon Link
Effectiveness
85
Protection
80
Brand
75
Materials
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$15.99

Organic

Contains Calendula, an extract known for its oral soothing properties.

Great for teething kids

Fluoride-free and sugar Free

No dyes or artificial preservatives, making it safe to swallow

Non-domestic for those in the U.S. making it hard to get

Expensive

Jack N’ Jill are here with two delicious flavors for their gels: blueberry and strawberry. These gels are organic, free from sugar, dyes, and additives, and perfect for teething children. The formula will also help to soothe sore little gums, encouraging children to use their toothpaste regularly.

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Effectiveness

Including organic substances into toddler toothpaste can improve its safety profile. Further adding to its safety is the absence of substances that may potentially threaten the health of young kids.

Protection

You won’t have to choose between flavors because you will receive both with your purchase. Not only is the toothpaste completely safe but so is the bottle as it is BPA free. Fortified with xylitol and organic calendula, this toothpaste soothes gums as it works to polish and clean teeth. Made without fluoride, it’s non hazardous if your little one should swallow it.

Brand

Jack N’ Jill touts itself as a company founded on natural care for babies and children. Their toothpaste formula was first made in Melbourne, Australia in 1949. This company makes gels, teethers, brushes, and more to aid in your little one’s oral hygiene.

Materials

Since the toothpaste is composed of natural ingredients, your baby will be fine if they accidentally swallow it.

9. Redmond Earthpaste Non-Flouride

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
redmond earthpaste non-flouride toddler toothpaste
redmond earthpaste non-flouride toddler toothpaste pack
redmond earthpaste non-flouride toddler toothpaste ingredients
Amazon Link
Effectiveness
85
Protection
80
Brand
75
Materials
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$9.29

Safe to swallow

Tubes are lightweight

No foaming agents

Helps with sensitivity

Does not freshen breath

The Redmond Earth Paste is as natural as it looks and sounds. It’s safe to swallow and natural. It’s marketed as the “ugliest toothpaste you’ll ever love” given it’s lack of additives. Kids may get a kick out of this gimmick (what child doesn’t love something that’s a little weird looking?) and the fresh lemon flavor.

Read more

Effectiveness

Your child can brush their teeth by themselves, as they will have no problem squeezing paste from the tube onto their brush. Earthpaste works with all-natural ingredients to polish and wash surface stains off of little teeth. There is no fluoride so use this as a training paste until your little ones know not to swallow their toothpaste.

Protection

The cap can also be easily opened and closed by young children. There are no foaming agents included in this paste, which means there won’t be a foamy mess when your child begins brushing their teeth.

Brand

Redmond Earthpaste believes that while profit is necessary to make their company run, their main missions is the enhancement of life and human development. It works to provide continual opportunities for employees to grow. Their products are all-natural and they provide multiple flavors.

Materials

The paste uses natural ingredients such as bentonite clay, sea salt, essential oils and activated charcoal. The all natural ingredients make this toothpaste okay to swallow as well as helps with sensitivity.

10. Spry All Natural with Xylitol

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
78.3
spry all natural with xylitol toddler toothpaste
spry all natural with xylitol toddler toothpaste back
spry all natural with xylitol toddler toothpaste single back
Amazon Link
Effectiveness
83
Protection
75
Brand
75
Materials
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$6.99

Three pack

Kids love the flavors

Naturally sweetened, free of sugar

All-natural formula

Gentle on sensitive little gums

The tubes are smaller than standard size

Thinner consistency than its competitors; kids can waste it easily

It’s a three-for-one with this Spry set. This all-natural tooth gel is perfect for beginning brushers as they learn basic hygiene practices. It comes in three kid-tested flavors, one of each in every pack: Strawberry Banana, Bubble Gum, and the Spry Original Flavor. Naturally sweetened, this gel is free of sugar, additives, and fluoride.

Read more

Effectiveness

This gel is recommended by many dentists and oral hygienists. It’s a gentle way to introduce children to the process of brushing their teeth and it helps to clean their little gums and dentures while still tasting good and being all-natural.

Protection

With no chemicals or harmful additives, kids can even swallow this safely. Sometimes it takes a little while to get the hang of things and this training gel is the perfect stepping stone while they learn.

Brand

Spry makes a bounty of kid-friendly products. You can find other tools for oral hygiene from them, such as mouth wash and several flavors of floss. Their products are all based on the promise of a natural formula that helps to create a beautiful smile.

Materials

Free of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, this gel is a happy alternatvie for those who show sensitivity to the foaming agent found in many toothpastes. The xylitol, a naturally occurring sweetener, allows the gel to taste good and still be sugar-free.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Effectiveness

If you cannot get your toddler to brush his/her teeth, there are things you can try to entice him/her. Holding them down will make them hate brushing their teeth so it is counterproductive. Working with the toddler mind is the way to go with things like this.

1. Forget toothpaste for a bit. Especially when they are infants, just rub the toothbrush around in their mouths. They may actually find that it makes their mouths feel better. Then introduce toothpaste gradually.

2. Play at brushing a doll’s teeth.

3. Switch it up and have your toddler brush your teeth.

4. Sing about it. Broadway and Disney may be onto something here. Singing is fun and kids dig fun. If you can turn teeth brushing into an amusement, you are going to get better results.

5. Start small and just do a quick swish in her/his mouth. Gradually, increase the time you are swishing and then once she/he is actually brushing, make it longer until you have reached the recommended time frame.

6. Let the toddler have the toothbrush. As long as he or she is with you and sitting still just let him or her chomp away. If you have to leave for any reason, take it away. Certainly, do not let a toddler run around with the toothbrush.

7. Copycat is a big thing for kids. They like to do what mommy and daddy do. Make it a family affair and brush all at the same time in front of the mirror. Help your child finish up and voila! Make sure you finish with a flourished smile in the mirror. Maybe you even come up with a catchphrase for when the teeth brushing is over.

Protection

Teeth are important and taking care of them is vital to keeping them healthy. Learning to take care of them early and parents learning how to teach something so difficult can be a lifelong win. When it comes to our children, every family has different criteria that a product has to meet to make it past the door. Something that contains Sodium Lauryl Sulfate may cause concern for some, but others may have never heard of it. Doing your own independent research is encouraged at the decision stage.

Brand

If it is not on the product itself, does the company have a website that includes good information and not just good graphics? If you cannot get past graphics to the facts, then you should be wary. All of these products have websites with clear instructions and lists of ingredients as well as warnings. Transparency should be the norm, but until it is, the consumer is responsible for cutting through the smokescreen to get to the picture.

In that interest, this list includes only products that are safe for swallowing with one clearly noted exception. Apart from fluoride, these toothpaste manufacturers understand that most kids are going to be more interested in eating the toothpaste than brushing it on their teeth. Even the most careful mom may miss the fact that a tube of toothpaste is missing and being sucked dry by their magical 2-year-old. While careful monitoring is a must during tooth brushing, some of the stress over what is going past the teeth and into the tummy can be reduced.

Materials

Whether or not the ingredients are natural is a consideration for this list. Everything has to be processed for it to be safe thanks to environmental pollutants today, but are the products being processed in an Earth-friendly and eco-friendly way?

Whether or not a child is going to actually use this was considered and the yays outweighed the nays. The fact that every child is different makes this a fairly loose criteria, but if it is a waste of money it matters very little if it is safe or not. The reviews examined are Amazon reviews as well as other web-based reviews.

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Parents, Did You Know?

Most of us parents are already familiar with the signs of teething, one of the most anticipated developmental milestones of any baby. While most of us believe that younger babies don’t have any teeth yet, the fact of the matter is that they already have a complete set of 20 deciduous or young tooth buds that are still hidden underneath the gums. Taking care of your child’s teeth actually depends on how well you understand teeth development in children. Here are some of the more important things that you need to understand.

Parents, Did You Know?

The first teeth to erupt are the two central incisors located in the front of the lower jaw, typically occurring between 6 to 10 months.

The second pair of teeth to erupt is the two central incisors of the upper jaw which typically occur around 8 to 13 months.

Once both upper and lower central incisors have erupted, the teeth beside them, called the lateral incisors, can begin to show, usually around 8 to 16 months.

The fourth set of teeth to erupt is the upper and lower molars which usually show by around 13 to 19 months.

By the age of 16 months up to 23 months, your child’s canine teeth or "fangs" start to erupt.

The last to erupt are the second row of molars, occurring between 25 and 33 months.

It is thus safe to say that toddlers will already have the complete set of 20 deciduous, milk, temporary, or primary teeth by the time they reach their 3rd year.

Other Factors to Consider

Support

Fluoride, if able to spit; fluoride-free if still unable to spit

Fluoride is a substance that is very important in the development of healthier and stronger teeth. This substance is needed in strengthening the outermost protective layer of the teeth, making it hard to break. This also makes it impermeable to the acids and other substances that are produced by bacteria and other microorganisms that reside in the oral cavity as well as the acids and other highly corrosive substances found in foods and drinks. Without fluoride, the temporary teeth of toddlers can be especially vulnerable to the development of tooth decay. That is why it is imperative that the toothpaste we choose for our toddlers to use must contain fluoride.

Educational Value

Unfortunately, there is a catch. If your toddler ingests too much of fluoride from his or her toothpaste, he or she is actually more prone to the development of brown or white discolorations on his or her teeth that have not erupted yet. This condition is known in the medical and dental community as fluorosis. While it does not pose any threat to the function or overall integrity of the teeth, it can be a source of anxiety both for the growing child and for the parent. A child who may notice streaks of faint white or brownish lines on his or her teeth may become overly conscious about its appearance. It should be understood that fluorosis only affects teeth that have not erupted yet. Once teeth have already broken through the gums, fluorosis no longer develops.

Taste

Given the fact that fluorosis occurs while teeth are still within the gums, it is recommended by the American Dental Association that fluoride-free toothpaste should be given to children who are not yet able to spit the liquid they use to rinse their mouth after brushing their teeth. This is to help reduce the amount of fluoride that children can accidentally ingest. This is especially true if your child is also drinking from a water source that is already fluoridated. Using fluoride toothpaste can only increase the levels of fluoride present in the child’s system if he or she is still unable to spit.

>While adults may relish cool minty flavors, the same may not hold true for young kids, especially toddlers who may have not yet fully developed the knack for a variety of tastes or flavors. Naturally, we want them to love brushing their teeth and one of the most effective ways you can ensure this is by giving them something that they love. Toddlers and other young children have a natural tendency for sweet flavors. That’s why strawberries, watermelon, and other sweet fruity tastes often work. However, it is more important to run through the different flavors that are available and let your child choose which among these he or she likes best. You may have to buy different flavor variants until your toddler can decide on which toothpaste he or she would like to use. It may incur some additional expense, but if you can get your child to have a more pleasant and really enjoyable teeth-brushing experience, then it’s all worth it.

Green Factor

No harmful ingredients

You can always go the all-natural route. However, you have to read the fine lines as even toothpastes that have been labeled as containing all-natural ingredients tend to have other substances that may be incorporated into the paste. Examples of things that you need to be wary of include artificial coloring agents, preservatives, and even certain artificial flavorings that may be detrimental to your kid’s health in the long run. While these substances are commonly found in products that we use as adults, our anatomy and physiology is inherently different from that of our kids. These substances may be safe for us, but the same may not be true for children, especially the younger ones.

Emotional Development

It is one thing to choose the right toothpaste for your toddler and it’s another thing to actively encourage and promote correct oral hygiene for kids. It is important to recognize the mutual relationship between oral health and general health; that a problem in one can lead to an issue in the other, and vice versa. As parents, it is up to us to help our young kids develop healthy oral and dental health habits. Here are some tips:

Make brushing the teeth an enjoyable experience for them. Try to play fun music while your toddler is brushing his or her teeth. You can choose children’s songs that last two minutes to serve as a timer for your kid’s brushing. Integrate some boogie dance moves while brushing.

Consider using modern technology such as an electric toothbrush to help encourage your toddler to brush his or her teeth. There are a variety of devices and gadgets that actually motivate young children to brush and care for their dentition. These are often integrated as play time activities.

Be a good role model for them. Toddlers already love to imitate. If they see you brushing your teeth the correct way, they will be more than encouraged and motivated to do the same thing. You can schedule a teeth-brushing time together.

Establish a routine. While most toddlers hate having a routine, if you structure it enough that tots will associate it with something that they love, then the routine can be something that they’ll look forward to.

Watch what you’re giving to your kids. Young children still deserve all the sweets and the goodies they love. However, you can set limits to how much they eat or teach them to brush their teeth right after eating these treats. If such is not possible, then you will have to teach them to always drink water to wash away food debris.

Create a brushing calendar. Toddlers love to see their accomplishments. If they see they are steadily progressing towards their goal for the week or even the month, they’d be more motivated to keep on doing what they have already started.

Design a positive reinforcement system. It doesn’t have to be extravagant. Just a simple way to acknowledge your tot’s accomplishments should be enough.

Don’t forget to get your toddler his or her first dental visit by the time he or she reaches the 1styear of his or her life. This way you can also be assisted by your dentist on what you can do to better care for your tot’s growing teeth while also encouraging him or her to begin observing healthy dental habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Are these in a certain order of preference, price, or another factor for ranking?

a:

The only products in a specific order are those of the same company, but for different ages and stages. Price was not a factor nor were search engine results a factor.

q: Can these only be purchased on Amazon?

a:

While some of these may be difficult to find at your local drug store, the links to Amazon are a practical matter. In the interest of not linking to several different websites and doing a cost comparison that way, Amazon already has a compare feature. They also have many reviews from verified purchasers and various buying options.

q: Do these come in different flavors?

a:

Some do have different flavors. It is another practicality issue. There are links to different flavors in addition to the cost and compare feature on Amazon. The company’s website may have a list that makes it easier to search for and should be viewed for accurate information from the source.

q: Why should I teach my toddler how to brush his teeth before they all come in?

a:

The first set of teeth your child gets are going to fall out no matter what. Baby teeth are the training wheels of their future oral hygiene. Teaching your kids to brush their teeth early can help with the battle when they get older. Finding a toothpaste that your kids will use is like finding a food texture your child finds acceptable. This list is based on an abundance of reviews by parents.

q: Is it necessary to buy a toothpaste just for your children?

a:

Adult kinds of toothpaste tend to have a strong smell. Mint is not a fan favorite of young children because it causes a strange cooling sensation from their mouths to their tummies. In addition, toothpaste formulated with kids in mind takes into consideration that kids will suck the paste off of the brush and swallow as opposed to brushing and spitting.

q: Why is there only one toothpaste on this list with fluoride?

a:

Dentists are now questioning whether or not to use fluoride toothpaste for toddlers so that is another thing to consider when deciding on a training toothpaste. If you are using city water to wet your child's toothbrush, they are getting some amount of fluoride anyway. Too much fluoride has its own set of problems.

q: Why go natural? It’s only toothpaste.

a:

hemicals enter our bodies everywhere from our clothes to our food. The inside of our mouths send chemicals directly into our bloodstreams and can disrupt natural bodily functions. Growth hormones in animals for instance already do this, so choosing a toothpaste may seem trivial, but it is just one more way to keep chemicals out of our kids.

Sources

  1. Mouth Helathy Staff, Babies and Kids, About
  2. Laura Agadoni, Infant Oral Care Begins Before Babies Have Teeth, Blog
  3. Admin, Taking care of your child’s smile, Informative Article
  4. WebMD, What Is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?, About
  5. Dr. Laura, How To Get Toddler To Brush teeth, About