At Haney Orthodontics, we believe everyone deserves a healthy smile – and the best way to achieve one is to start the process at a young age. While we’re proud to help patients of all ages in San Anselmo and San Rafael achieve great smiles through orthodontic care, proper oral hygiene is vital to a healthy smile as well. Children should start brushing their teeth with toothpaste at age 2, but not all toothpaste are created equal. So how do you choose the best toothpaste for your child?
The Best Toothpaste for Children
As a parent, the many choices in the toothpaste aisle can make it hard to know what’s best for your child’s teeth. Toothpaste comes in just about every flavor, color, and recipe imaginable, so if you’re unsure which toothpaste to pick out for your child, here are a few things to look for:
- The ADA Seal: The American Dental Association maintains stringent standards for toothpaste, and they place their seal only on toothpaste that meets those standards. Look for the ADA seal on the box – it should be clearly visible, and it means the toothpaste is 100% safe for your child.
- Favorite Flavors: When you start brushing your child’s teeth and teaching them to brush on their own, you’re building habits that will last a lifetime. As such, brushing should be as enjoyable as possible, so your child is more motivated to do it. Look for toothpaste that comes in your child’s favorite flavors, as this will make them more amenable to the brushing routine.
- Fluoride: Fluoride is mineral that builds the strength of teeth, and it’s a critical ingredient in toothpaste. Make sure you purchase fluoridated toothpaste for your child, as this will help their teeth grow strong and stay healthy.
Schedule a Pediatric Evaluation with Your San Anselmo Kids’ Orthodontist
Choosing a good fluoridated toothpaste and brushing twice a day is vital to your child’s dental development, but the alignment of your child’s teeth is just as important as dental health. Children should get their first orthodontic evaluation at age 7 – and if you’re ready to schedule an evaluation for your child, we can help. if you’re in the San Anselmo or San Rafael area and are looking for an orthodontist for your child, then fill out our easy online form to request a consultation.We’ll determine whether or not your child needs early orthodontics and create a treatment plan that helps them achieve an ideal smile. We look forward to hearing from you!