new parents: i’m asked all the time what the best baby toothpaste is. let’s look at product recommendations, some common misconceptions about brushing baby’s teeth, and what else you can do to keep those tiny pearls healthy and strong!
As if brushing your baby’s teeth isn’t hard enough, there’s a myriad of baby and toddler toothpastes to choose from. But what’s the best baby toothpaste?
I was reminded of this fact after my daughter asked for help picking a baby toothpaste for my 14-month old granddaughter.
Here’s how the conversation went…
Catharine: What kind of toothpaste can I use for my baby?
Me: Skip it.
Yes, that’s right! You can go ahead and skip using toothpaste altogether if you want.
I find that using baby toothpaste under age two can sometimes be more mess and difficulty than its worth. The important thing is that you’re brushing.
Toothpaste isn’t actually essential to protecting teeth or improving dental health—brushing and flossing are.
It’s just the polishing agent—the physical motion of the brush disorganizes biofilm and prevents plaque. And that’s why brushing can make a major difference in cavity prevention.
(If you’re interested, this is the best baby toothbrush for babies two and under.)
But, with that said, the best baby toothpaste can still achieve many things.
If you’re looking for which baby toothpaste to buy for your child under age two, in this article, I list out my favorites. I’ll also explain what parents need to know when choosing a toothpaste, specifically for toddlers and babies under age two.
Here’s everything you should know about what to do for your child’s teeth between about 6-24 months.
Why do babies need special toothpaste?
Babies and toddlers should not use regular toothpaste.
Children don’t develop the ability to spit until around age three, meaning they ingest whatever chemicals are in the toothpaste.
Many adult toothpaste brands, and unfortunately, some kids’ toothpaste, including the ones branded as “all-natural,” contain ingredients that are actually harmful to oral health. That’s why I don’t suggest buying the first child’s Crest toothpaste you see at the drugstore.
This shady toothpaste marketing can make it difficult to know that what you’re using to brush your little ones’ teeth is totally safe.
So, is toothpaste safe for babies?
It can be! While there are a few ingredients to avoid in baby’s toothpaste, there are plenty of safe, natural toothpastes for kids. The best baby toothpaste won’t use fluoride, SLS, or most essential oils.
Ingredients to Avoid in Toothpaste for Kids
1. Fluoride
Whatever toothpaste you decide on for your toddler, make sure it’s fluoride-free.
Is fluoride bad for you?
For children, it definitely is.
Many people think that fluoride toothpaste is necessary to prevent cavities. However, there are other ways to accomplish this that don’t carry the risk of a neurotoxin and fluorosis.
When fluoride is swallowed, it is toxic. And even if your baby or toddler is exposed to small doses, there’s evidence…
