A Pediatric Dentist Guide To Choosing the Best Toothpaste for Kids

By Elizabeth "Andie" Shin, DDS

Bethesda Chevy Chase Pediatric Dentistry

. https://bccpediatricdentistry.com/

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A Pediatric Dentist Guide To Choosing the Best Toothpaste for Kids

When it comes to our children, we all want what’s best for them, especially in their formative years. Oral health is no exception, and choosing the right toothpaste can play a pivotal role in setting them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. This guide aims to provide an in-depth comparison of different types of children’s toothpaste available on the market, helping parents make informed decisions for children aged 2 to 14.

1. Organic Vs. Non-Organic Toothpaste

• Composition: Organic toothpaste is made from naturally derived ingredients and avoids synthetic chemicals. Non-organic versions might include artificial components for flavor, texture, and preservation.
• Sweetener: Organics typically use natural sweeteners like stevia or xylitol, while non-organics might include these or opt for artificial sweeteners.
• Pros of Organic: Free from artificial chemicals and dyes, often excludes Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), which can cause mouth ulcers.
• Cons of Organic: Generally more expensive and may lack fluoride, crucial for cavity prevention.
• Pros of Non-Organic: Usually contains fluoride, providing a broader range of flavors and properties.
• Cons of Non-Organic: Potential inclusion of artificial colors and preservatives.

2. Fluoride vs. Fluoride-Free Toothpaste

• Composition: Fluoride toothpaste may contain sodium fluoride or stannous fluoride, while fluoride-free versions do not include this ingredient.
• Pros of Fluoride: Effective in reducing dental cavities and helping remineralize weakened tooth enamel.
• Cons of Fluoride: Risks dental fluorosis if swallowed regularly in large amounts by young children.
• Pros of Fluoride-Free: Safer for young children who can’t spit properly.
• Cons of Fluoride-Free: Lacks the anti-cavity benefits of fluoride.

3. Nanohydroxyapatite

• Composition: A calcium phosphate compound, an alternative to fluoride.
• Pros: Rebuilds enamel, reduces sensitivity, and is non-toxic.
• Cons: Less available and often pricier than fluoride toothpastes.

4. Charcoal-Infused Toothpaste

• Composition: Includes activated charcoal, purported to whiten teeth and remove stains.
• Pros: May help remove surface stains.
• Cons: Abrasive nature could wear down enamel, and long-term safety and effectiveness are unclear.

5. Flavored Toothpaste (Fruit, Bubblegum, etc.)

• Composition: Contains flavoring agents to enhance palatability for children.
• Pros: Makes brushing more enjoyable, encouraging regular use.
• Cons: Some flavors might be artificial.

6. Xylitol-Enhanced

• Composition: Contains xylitol, a natural sweetener with dental benefits.
• Pros: Reduces decay-causing bacteria and is less likely to cause cavities than sugary toothpastes.
• Cons: Typically more expensive than standard toothpaste.

Recommendations for Ages 2 to 14

For most children within this age range, fluoride toothpaste is recommended unless medically advised otherwise:

• Ages 2-6: Use a pea-sized amount with at least 1000 ppm fluoride.
• Ages 6 and up: Opt for toothpaste with 1350 to 1500 ppm fluoride.

Selecting a toothpaste that kids enjoy can significantly improve their brushing habits. For concerns about swallowing toothpaste, consider fluoride-free options or those with alternative active ingredients like nanohydroxyapatite until proper spitting technique is learned.

The Ideal Toothpaste for Children

If we could formulate the perfect toothpaste for children, it would ideally contain all the benefits of both organic and scientifically advanced ingredients without any of the drawbacks associated with fluoride, which, while effective in preventing cavities, has raised concerns due to the potential for dental fluorosis in young children who ingest too much.

The ideal children’s toothpaste would feature:

• Nanohydroxyapatite for its enamel-remineralizing properties, which is similar to fluoride in its ability to strengthen teeth but without the associated risks.
• Xylitol to effectively reduce decay-causing bacteria and provide a naturally sweet taste.
• Essential Oils like peppermint and tea tree for their natural antimicrobial properties, helping keep the oral microbiome healthy.
• Aloe Vera for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, perfect for sensitive young gums.
• Calcium Carbonate and Silica for gentle abrasion that effectively cleans without harming young, developing enamel.

Why Isn’t This Ideal Toothpaste More Common?

Despite the clear benefits of such a toothpaste, there are a few reasons why this ideal product might not be readily available or popular in the market:

• Cost of Production: Ingredients like nanohydroxyapatite and high-quality natural extracts are more expensive than the conventional components used in most children’s toothpaste. This could drive up the retail price, making the product less accessible to a broad market.
• Consumer Awareness: Many consumers are not fully informed about the benefits of these alternative ingredients. Traditional fluoride toothpaste has been endorsed and recommended by dental professionals worldwide for decades, making it a tough incumbent to dethrone.
• Regulatory Approval: In some regions, fluoride is still the only cavity-preventing ingredient endorsed by government health agencies for inclusion in toothpaste. Getting approval for new ingredients can be a lengthy and expensive process.
• Market Demand: Companies produce products that are most likely to sell. Unless there’s a significant demand for fluoride-free alternatives, major brands might not see the economic benefit in shifting away from fluoride.

Availability of Such Products

While not the standard, there are products on the market that come close to this ideal composition. Brands like “Dr. Sheffield’s”, “RiseWell”, and “Boka” offer toothpastes containing nanohydroxyapatite, natural flavors, and essential oils, targeted at children and adults looking for fluoride-free options. These brands are pioneering in making such formulations more mainstream but still face the challenges of high production costs and limited consumer knowledge.

In conclusion, while the perfect children’s toothpaste might not yet dominate the market, there are options available for parents who prioritize natural ingredients and want to avoid fluoride. As awareness grows and technology advances, we might see more products fitting this ideal becoming widely available. Always consult with a pediatric dentist like Dr. Elizabeth Shin for guidance tailored to your child’s specific dental needs. This proactive approach ensures your child’s dental care is not just about maintaining a bright smile, but also about ensuring a healthy future.