The Best Toothpaste For Children

The Best Toothpaste For Children

August 22, 2023 in Blog 0Comments

As a parent, you tend to strive to make the best choices for your children’s health, and dental care is no exception. When it comes to maintaining healthy smiles and instilling good oral hygiene habits, choosing the right toothpaste is a crucial decision. With so many options available on the market, finding the best toothpaste for children can feel overwhelming. This blog post will be a guide for you to use when it comes to finding the best toothpaste.

So let’s get started.

Importance of Choosing the Right Toothpaste

Selecting the right toothpaste for your child is more than just a matter of personal preference or flavour. It directly impacts their oral health and sets the foundation for a lifetime of good dental habits. Let’s explore the importance of choosing the right toothpaste for children and the key factors to consider.

Effective Cleaning and Protection

The primary purpose of toothpaste is to clean the teeth and protect against tooth decay. The right toothpaste should contain fluoride, a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Fluoride toothpaste is a powerful tool in fighting dental caries, especially for children who are still developing their brushing skills.

Age-Appropriate Formulas

Toothpaste formulations are designed specifically for different age groups. Younger children may need toothpaste with lower fluoride concentrations until they can reliably spit out toothpaste after brushing. Age-appropriate formulas take into account the unique dental needs and developmental stages of children.

Taste and Texture

Children are more likely to embrace dental care when they enjoy the taste and texture of their toothpaste. Many toothpaste brands offer a wide range of flavours and textures tailored to appeal to young taste buds. Finding a toothpaste that your child finds appealing can make brushing a more enjoyable experience.

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

Some children may experience tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli. If your child has sensitive teeth, it’s important to choose a toothpaste specifically formulated to address this issue. Look for toothpaste labelled as “desensitizing” or “for sensitive teeth” to provide relief and protection for your child’s sensitive teeth.

Gentle on Gums and Enamel

The ideal toothpaste for children should be gentle on their delicate gums and tooth enamel. Look for toothpaste that is specifically formulated to be mild and non-irritating. Avoid abrasive toothpaste or those containing harsh ingredients that could potentially damage the enamel or cause gum sensitivity.

Top Toothpaste Options for Children

When it comes to choosing the best toothpaste for your child, it’s essential to consider their specific dental needs and preferences. To help you make an informed decision, we have curated a list of some of the top toothpaste options recommended for children. 

Let’s explore these toothpaste brands and what sets them apart:

Colgate Kids Cavity Protection Toothpaste

Colgate Kids Cavity Protection Toothpaste is a popular choice among parents in Canada. It provides effective cavity protection with a clinically proven fluoride formula. This toothpaste comes in kid-friendly flavours like Bubble Fruit and Strawberry Smash, making brushing a fun experience for children.

Crest Kids Cavity Protection Toothpaste

Crest Kid’s Cavity Protection Toothpaste is another widely trusted brand in Canada. It offers a range of toothpaste options specifically formulated for children. Their toothpaste contains fluoride to fight against cavities and is available in flavours like Sparkle Fun and Bubblegum, ensuring kids enjoy brushing their teeth.

Tom’s of Maine Children’s Toothpaste

Tom’s of Maine Children’s Toothpaste is a natural toothpaste option that many Canadian parents appreciate. It is fluoride-free and made with naturally derived ingredients. Tom’s of Maine offers flavours like Silly Strawberry and Mild Mint, providing a pleasant brushing experience for children who prefer natural products.

Orajel My Little Pony Fluoride Toothpaste

Orajel My Little Pony Fluoride Toothpaste is a popular choice for young children in Canada. It features colourful packaging and characters that appeal to kids. This toothpaste contains fluoride to protect against cavities and comes in fruity flavours like Berry Blast and Fruit Burst, making brushing time enjoyable.

Hello Kids Fluoride Toothpaste

Hello, Kids Fluoride Toothpaste is known for its gentle and effective formula. It contains fluoride to prevent cavities and strengthen enamel. Hello Kids offers a variety of delightful flavours such as Blue Raspberry, Bubble Gum, and Watermelon, ensuring that children look forward to brushing their teeth every day.

Proper Brushing Techniques and Establishing a Positive Dental Routine

Choosing the best toothpaste for your child is just the first step toward maintaining excellent oral health. Equally important is establishing proper brushing techniques and a positive dental routine. By teaching your child the right way to brush their teeth and making oral care enjoyable, you set them up for a lifetime of healthy habits. 

Let’s explore some essential tips for proper brushing techniques and establishing a positive dental routine for your child.

Start Early and Lead by Example

Introduce toothbrushing as soon as your child’s first tooth emerges. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush suitable for their age and a smear of toothpaste (no larger than a grain of rice) containing fluoride. Lead by example and brush your own teeth alongside your child to make it a fun and bonding experience.

Brushing Technique

Teach your child the following brushing technique:

  1. Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line.
  2. Use gentle, circular motions to brush both the outer and inner surfaces of the teeth.
  3. Pay special attention to the chewing surfaces and the back teeth, where food particles often accumulate.
  4. Encourage your child to brush for two minutes, ensuring that they brush all areas thoroughly.
Timing and Frequency

Help your child establish a routine by brushing their teeth at least twice a day: once in the morning and once before bed. Set a timer or use a fun toothbrushing app to ensure they brush for the recommended two minutes. Encourage consistency to make oral care a habit.

Supervise and Assist

Young children may lack the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively on their own. Supervise their brushing routine and assist as needed until they can handle it independently. It’s important to ensure that all areas of the mouth are thoroughly cleaned.

Make It Fun and Engaging

Transform toothbrushing into an enjoyable activity. Use toothbrushes with their favourite cartoon characters, play their favourite song or a two-minute timer to make brushing time exciting. Consider using a reward system or creating a toothbrushing chart to track their progress and celebrate their efforts.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Alongside proper brushing, regular dental check-ups are essential for your child’s oral health. Schedule routine visits to your dentist at Kids Dental for professional cleanings, thorough examinations, and personalized guidance on maintaining optimal dental hygiene. By following these tips and establishing a positive dental routine, you set your child on the path to a lifetime of good oral health.

If you liked this blog, check out this one on, “Invisalign for Teens: A Clear Alternative to Braces.”

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Dr. Amanda Huminicki

BScDent, MScDent, DMD
I love working with children, which is why I have so much fun as a pediatric dentist. I taught children dance lessons while in school, and knew that I wanted to keep working with kids as a dentist. I’m lucky to have the privilege of laughing and sharing joy with my patients, and I enjoy watching them grow up into amazing young adults. I find it so rewarding to be part of a fantastic team that helps kids learn about their oral health and have a positive experience at the dentist.

Education

  • Bachelor of Science degree (Dentistry), University of Manitoba
  • Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree, University of Manitoba
  • Masters of Science degree (Dentistry), University of Manitoba

Continuing Education

I enjoy keeping current in the field of pediatric dentistry and getting together with colleagues to learn and share experiences. I attend many courses and conferences each year and am a member of the following organizations:

  • Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
  • American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
  • Ontario Society of Pediatric Dentistry
  • York Region Dental Society

In the Practice

I’m so fortunate to work with a fantastic group of people at KDG! The entire team is so caring and dedicated to providing the best possible care to our patients, and we have a lot of fun together at work. It’s a joy to work closely with such talented and knowledgeable people who also have incredibly kind hearts. Our patients and their families are so much fun to interact with, and there’s always a positive and upbeat feeling in the clinic.

Family and Community

I recently moved to Toronto from Winnipeg with my husband and am really enjoying getting to know my new community. The city is so exciting and I’m having fun exploring Toronto and all the amazing communities nearby. I enjoy staying active, and can usually be found running, at spin class, doing yoga, or walking outside on a nice day. I also love spending time with my family and friends, and try to see them as much as possible.

Dr. Krista Lee

BSc, DDS, Cert. Ortho.
I am enthusiastic and passionate about what I do and I feel very lucky to be an orthodontist. I get to meet new people every day in the office, and I always learn a lot about them. I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to impact the lives of others in a positive way.Because I see my patients every month for a couple of years, I really get a chance to get to know them, watching the young ones grow and mature. It makes me the happiest when a patient comes in and is excited be here and wants to share good news with me, like graduating, getting straight A’s, or their first goal at a soccer game. They know that I’m interested in them, I care, and I am proud of their accomplishments.

I appreciate that they are willing to let me help them with their smiles, and that they are willing to do their part, too. It’s a team effort because the orthodontist, the patient, the family, and the staff all have to work together to create beautiful smiles!

Education

  • Bachelors of Science, University of Western Ontario
  • Dentistry, University of Western Ontario
  • General Practice Residency, University of British Columbia and Vancouver General Hospital
  • Orthodontic Specialty, New York University in Manhattan
  • Board Eligible for the American Board of Orthodontists
  • Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada

Continuing Education

During my time at New York University, I was an instructor for the Invisalign® course for dental students, and the orthodontic course for the dental honors students. I’ve learned so much during my education and enjoy sharing this knowledge with my patients and staff.

I’ve also published research in the American Journal of Orthodontics, Journal of Canadian Dentistry, and Oral Health. Our profession is moving toward evidenced-based practices and I think it’s very important to help support this.

While practicing as a general dentist, I had the opportunity to provide dental care to the First Nations’ population in the Northwest Territories, Northern Manitoba, and the Queen Charlotte Islands in BC. I also had the opportunity to provide dental outreach to children’s hospitals and orphanages in Vietnam and Cambodia, which was very rewarding. Locally, LA Orthodontics is proud to support the Sick Kids Foundation.

Professional Affiliations

  • Canadian Association for Orthodontics
  • American Association for Orthodontics
  • Northeastern Society for Orthodontics

Family and Community

I grew up in Vancouver, BC, and am very excited to be part of the Stouffville community! We have recently joined the Whitchurch-Stouffville Chamber of Commerce and I have met many great people and everyone has been very welcoming. My family in Vancouver includes my parents, younger brother and sister, and my older brother in Singapore. All of us are very close and get along well. In my spare time, I enjoy ballet, travel, cooking, and snorkeling.

Dr. Edina Heder

MScDent., DMD, Cert. Pedo.
I love kids. They are fun-loving and you can joke around with them all day long. That’s why I find my work in pediatric dentistry so rewarding. I get to spend time with some of the brightest, most fun people in the world, helping them stay healthy and develop good habits for a lifetime of wellness.

Education

Before becoming a dentist, I attained the following education:

  • Doctor of Medical Dentistry Degree, University of Manitoba
  • Clinical Director of the Undergraduate Pediatric Dentistry, University of Manitoba
  • Pediatric Dentistry Certificate and Masters Degree in Dentistry, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey

 

Continuing Education

I maintain memberships with several professional organizations that ensure I stay informed about the latest technology and techniques in my field. I belong to the following associations:

  • Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
  • Ontario Society of Pediatric Dentistry
  • York Region Dental Society
  • American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

In the Practice

I am proud to be a part of this practice and to associate with so many excellent professionals. I have a strong sense of home here, which is very important to me. My family moved from Bosnia when I was a child and we settled in Winnipeg where I grew up. After earning my DMD degree, I practiced and taught there before going to New Jersey to specialize. I moved to Ontario after graduating from the pediatric program to become a part of the LA team. I love the variety of my work and how friendly the atmosphere at the office is every day. It not only makes my job as nice as it is, it also helps provide a great atmosphere for my patients. Having a positive experience at the dentist as a child can make a big difference in person’s lifelong outlook on oral health.

Family and Community

My husband and I live in Gormley, Ontario where we are happy to raise our very active children. The kids keep us busy with a variety of activities, including gymnastics at Pulsars and swimming in Stouffville. I enjoy all of the time I get to spend at home and in my community with my family.

Dr. Zhemeng Wang

DDS, Cert. Pedo.
First and foremost, I love children. They inspire me every day to have more fun and to be more energetic, creative, and optimistic. I am very lucky that, as a pediatric dentist, my job gives me the opportunity to interact with kids all day long, and to help them with their oral health and overall health.

Education

  • Bachelor’s degree, McGill University
  • Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, University of Western Ontario
  • Advanced Training in Pediatric Dentistry, New York University College of Dentistry

Continuing Education

I greatly value the importance of keeping up with the latest advances in my field. Throughout the year, I attend several conferences and continuing education courses offered by my professional associations, which include:

  • American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
  • American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
  • Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
  • Ontario Society of Pediatric Dentistry
  • Chinese Canadian Dental Society

In the Practice

I truly believe that I work at one of the finest teams in the field of oral health. It is wonderful to be a part of an organization that cares so deeply for patients and works to provide the best treatment setting possible. I am confident that my patients will be comfortable in this practice and committed in providing a great experience at each visit.

Family and Community

I really love Toronto and all the opportunities it provides. I am proud of my work with the Chinese Canadian Dental Society, of which I am a past president, as well as the educational sessions I have conducted at several schools in Richmond Hill and Markham. In my leisure time, I like to be with family and friends, whether it’s catching a movie or exploring one of Toronto’s excellent restaurants. I stay fit by running and practicing yoga. I also like to travel when I get the chance.

Dr. Anthony Antoniazzi

BSc, DDS, Cert. Ortho.
I feel very privileged to be an orthodontist, because my profession has truly changed the way people smile. Orthodontics can have a positive impact on self-esteem and it is amazing to see the changes it can have on an individual’s self-confidence. I truly feel as though I have the greatest job in the world, and I enjoy coming to work every day. Because our practice treats both children and adults, we are very fortunate to meet many different people and build personal and professional relationships with them. Not only can we help our patients, but we can also learn from them.

We have a strong, team approach at the office, hopefully making every treatment more efficient and enjoyable. My team and I have the experience and knowledge required to create beautiful smiles, and, best of all, we love what we do! My profession allows me to give back to the community, and to give confidence through a new smile!

Education

  • Bachelor of Science Degree – Laurentian University
  • Doctorate of Dental Surgery – University of Western Ontario
  • Advanced Education in General Dentistry – Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
  • Orthodontic Specialty – Jacksonville University, Florida
  • Board Eligible for the American Board of Orthodontics
  • Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada

Continuing Education

I have been exposed to a wide variety of continuing education courses which have helped mold the way I practice orthodontics. We believe in an evidence-based approach when employing new techniques in our practice. Not only do we take into consideration the dental literature and doctors’ experience and expertise, but we also truly value patients’ input.

As a part of my continuing education, I dedicated a full year to focusing on crown and bridge and implant dentistry. As many complex orthodontic cases require an interdisciplinary-approach, it is helpful to have this background and understanding when I am planning treatment and communicating with the dentists of our patients.

Professional Affiliations

  • Canadian Association of Orthodontics
  • Progressive Orthodontist Study Group

Family and Community

I am originally from Kirkland Lake and really enjoy the similarities I have found here in Stouffville. Everyone is warm and friendly, and even though it’s a big city, it has the charm and feeling of a small town! My parents still live up north and own a pharmacy in Kirkland Lake, and I have two older sisters and four really fun nephews! In my spare time, I enjoy golf, fishing, hockey, live music, and doing anything outdoors.

I am new to the Stouffville area but in the past I have been active in my community through coaching youth sports, especially hockey, baseball, and volleyball. I also volunteer for the Christmas Wish Foundation and Meals on Wheels. I understand the importance of being a community-minded citizen and I am excited to become an active member of the Stouffville community!