Best Kids Toothpaste: A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Smiles

Many parents find that trial and error is the best way to find the best toothpaste for their kids. I’m going to tell you how I tried many brands before finding the ones that kids love and don’t cause any negative reactions. I am here to guide parents in selecting the best kids’ toothpaste for healthy smiles. This article sets out the challenges, preferences and outcomes that have been encountered.

I. Why is Choosing the Right Kids Toothpaste Important?

1. Prevalence of Fillings in Children

It is clear that the prevalence of fillings among children has increased significantly over the years. Individuals who grew up in the 80s and 90s often report having numerous fillings, and this is often down to unnecessary dental work driven by financial incentives for dentists. Children born in the late 2000s and 2010s have fewer fillings, undoubtedly due to better preventive care.

2. Genetic Factors and Dental Health

Genetics undoubtedly play a role in dental health, influencing factors such as saliva composition and oral microbiome. Despite the best efforts of parents and children alike, some children will still develop cavities due to these genetic predispositions. It is therefore essential to choose a toothpaste that provides optimal protection against cavities.

3. Impact of Diet and Oral Hygiene

It is indisputable that diet and oral hygiene practices have a profound impact on childhood dental health. Sugary foods and drinks cause tooth decay. Even natural sugars found in milk and fruit can cause problems if you don’t maintain proper oral hygiene. You must brush your teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste to remove bacteria that cause decay.

II. What to Look for in the Best Kids Toothpaste

1. Fluoride Content

Fluoride is an essential ingredient in toothpaste. It strengthens enamel and prevents tooth decay. Dentists advise using a small amount of fluoride toothpaste from the time your child’s first tooth erupts. For children under three, use a rice-sized smear. For older kids, use a pea-sized amount. If you live in an area without fluoridated water, you absolutely need to use fluoride toothpaste.

2. Flavor Preferences

The flavour of toothpaste is a key factor in a child’s willingness to brush their teeth. Many children find mint flavours too strong or “spicy”. Offering kid-friendly flavours like strawberry, bubblegum, or other mild flavours is the best way to make brushing a more enjoyable experience and encourage regular brushing habits. Some adults and teenagers also prefer children’s toothpaste because it tastes milder.

3. ADA Seal of Acceptance

The ADA Seal of Acceptance is your guarantee that the toothpaste meets all safety and efficacy standards. This seal guarantees that the product has been rigorously tested and approved by dental professionals. Products with this seal have been proven to be safe and effective.

4. Age Appropriateness

Fluoride use in children’s toothpaste is regulated differently in different countries. In the US, the recommended approach is to start using fluoride toothpaste as soon as the teeth come in, with a very small amount. In Canada, fluoride-free toothpaste is used until children can move up to kids toothpaste with fluoride. But in UK, fluoride toothpaste is available in different strengths for various age groups (0-2, 2-7, 7+).

III. Best Kids Toothpaste Recommendations

A. Fluoride Toothpastes

Most pediatric dentists recommend the use of fluoride toothpaste for its cavity-preventing properties. For young children, a dab or a rice-sized amount is considered safe, even if swallowed. Some popular fluoride toothpastes include:

1. Crest Kids Cavity Protection

This toothpaste is a favourite of many parents and children. It has a pleasant strawberry flavour that makes brushing more enjoyable for kids. It combines a fun, fruity taste with fluoride to help strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.

Features:

• Flavor: Strawberry which appeals to children and makes brushing more enjoyable.
• Fluoride: Contains fluoride to help fight cavities and strengthen tooth enamel.
• Gentle Formula: Designed specifically for kids, ensuring it’s gentle on young teeth and gums.
• Packaging: Often comes in bright, colourful packaging that attracts children’s attention.

Pros:

• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The strawberry flavour makes it more likely that children will brush regularly without fuss.
• Effective Cavity Protection: Contains fluoride, which is essential for preventing cavities and maintaining dental health.
• Encourages Good Habits: Fun flavours can encourage children to develop good oral hygiene habits from a young age.

Cons:

• Limited Appeal for Adults: While some adults might enjoy the flavour, others may find it too sweet or not refreshing enough compared to mint-flavoured toothpaste.
• Potential for Overuse: Children might be tempted to use more toothpaste than necessary because of the appealing flavour, which could lead to excessive fluoride intake if not supervised.

Parent Testimonial:

One parent mentioned they started using their toddler’s toothpaste to avoid waste and found it quite enjoyable. They vouched for the effectiveness and pleasant taste of children’s toothpaste flavours like strawberry. Another parent highlighted the importance of fluoride in preventing cavities and praised the product for helping maintain their child’s dental health.

2. Tom’s of Maine Strawberry

Another popular choice is Tom’s of Maine Strawberry. While some parents have noted that it contains SLS (which can cause canker sores), others appreciate its natural ingredients. It features a fruity strawberry flavour that makes brushing more enjoyable for kids, encouraging good oral hygiene habits from an early age.

Features:

• Fluoride Protection: Helps prevent cavities and strengthens enamel.
• Natural Ingredients: Made with naturally sourced ingredients, free from artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives.
• Strawberry Flavor: A kid-friendly taste that appeals to children who dislike minty flavours.
• ADA Accepted: Recognized by the American Dental Association for its effectiveness in preventing tooth decay.

Pros:

• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The strawberry taste is well-liked by children, making it easier to get them to brush their teeth regularly.
• Natural Ingredients: Parents appreciate the natural composition, avoiding synthetic additives.
• Less Foamy: Compared to some other toothpaste, it produces less foam, which can be preferable for both kids and adults who find foamy toothpaste unpleasant.

Cons:

• Not Suitable for Adults Seeking Strong Mint: While great for kids, adults looking for a strong minty flavour might not find it satisfying.
• Texture Preference: Some users may prefer a different texture or consistency in their toothpaste.

Parent Testimonial:

One parent appreciated the natural ingredients and less harsh formula compared to traditional minty toothpaste.

B. Non-Fluoride Toothpastes

If you’re a parent concerned about fluoride ingestion, you should know that hydroxyapatite is an effective alternative to fluoride for strengthening enamel and preventing cavities. There are non-fluoride alternatives like:

1. Jack n’ Jill Toothpaste

It is the best on the market, thanks to its high xylitol content, which effectively prevents cavities. It comes in various flavours, which makes it appealing to children. Parents know they can safely swallow it, which is crucial for younger kids who aren’t yet able to spit out toothpaste.

Features:

• Natural Ingredients: The toothpaste is free from artificial preservatives, colours, and flavours. It uses organic calendula to soothe gums and organic flavourings.
• Fluoride-Free: Ideal for parents who prefer to avoid fluoride in their children’s oral care products.
• Safe if Swallowed: Formulated to be safe if ingested, which is particularly important for young children who may not yet have mastered spitting out toothpaste.
• Vegan and Cruelty-Free: The product is vegan-friendly and has not been tested on animals.
• BPA-Free Packaging: Comes in BPA-free packaging, ensuring safety and environmental consciousness.

Pros:

• Appealing Flavors: Available in kid-friendly flavours like strawberry, banana, and blueberry, which can encourage children to brush their teeth regularly.
• Gentle on Gums: Contains organic calendula, which helps to soothe young gums.
• Safe Formula: The fluoride-free and safe-if-swallowed formula provides peace of mind for parents.
• Eco-Friendly: Vegan, cruelty-free, and packaged in BPA-free materials, making it an environmentally responsible choice.

Cons:

• No Fluoride: Lacks fluoride, which some parents and dentists consider essential for preventing cavities.
• Price: It can be more expensive than conventional toothpaste.
• Limited Availability: This may only be available in some stores, requiring online purchases or speciality retailers.

Parent Testimonial:

One parent shared, “I love Jack N’ Jill Toothpaste for my kids because it’s natural and safe if they swallow it. My daughter loves the strawberry flavour and actually looks forward to brushing her teeth now. It’s a bit pricier than other brands, but I think it’s worth it for the peace of mind.”

2. OJOOK Kids Toothpaste

OJOOK is a fluoride-free toothpaste formulated for children under 12 that utilizes nano-hydroxyapatite to remineralize enamel and Korean bamboo salt to promote a healthy oral microbiome. The toothpaste also contains xylitol to combat harmful bacteria and baking soda for gentle cleaning and whitening.

Features:

• It uses nano-hydroxyapatite instead of fluoride.
• It features Korean bamboo salt, is EWG Verified™ clean, and has only ten ingredients.
• The Pure Dew flavor is described as “ever-so-slightly sweet” and comes from xylitol and coconut oil.

Pros:

• The toothpaste is safe for ages 0-12.
• It is formulated without fluoride.
• It is safe if swallowed.
• It helps prevent cavities, strengthen enamel, and supports healthier gums.
• The ingredients meet the EWG Verified™ standard for health and safety, meaning they are free from harmful chemicals.
• It is triclosan-free, cruelty-free, vegan, and sustainable.

Cons:

• Limited availability and high cost compared to other brands.
• Potential lack of fluoride, which is essential for cavity prevention.
• May not be as effective in whitening or remineralizing teeth as other specialized toothpastes.

Parent Testimonial:

One parent, Jian W., stated that they felt safe using this toothpaste for their toddler because it seemed like there was “nothing bad in it”. They also noted that it made brushing their 18-month-old’s teeth easier because they didn’t have to wipe excess toothpaste out of their mouth.

C. SLS-Free Toothpaste

Finding an SLS-free toothpaste that is safe for kids is difficult.

1. Burt’s Bees

It offers fluoride toothpaste that is free of SLS, artificial ingredients, and dyes. Is a natural toothpaste designed for children.

Features:

• Fluoride-free formula: This toothpaste does not contain fluoride, catering to parents who prefer fluoride-free oral care products for their children.
• Gentle cleaning: It is designed to gently clean children’s teeth.
• Natural flavour: The toothpaste is flavoured with a natural bubblegum flavour.
• Free from harsh chemicals: It is formulated without sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), triclosan, parabens, artificial flavours and sweeteners, preservatives, and artificial dyes.
• Sustainable packaging: The toothpaste tubes are recyclable through Terracycle, and the cartons are curbside recyclable.

Pros:

• Natural ingredients: The toothpaste is made with natural ingredients, appealing to parents seeking natural oral care options for their children.
• Pleasant taste: The bubblegum flavour makes brushing more enjoyable for children.
• Fluoride-free option: It provides an alternative for parents who are not comfortable using fluoride toothpaste for their children.
• Environmentally friendly packaging: The recyclable packaging aligns with eco-conscious values.

Cons:

• Lack of fluoride: While fluoride-free is a choice for some parents, fluoride is a key ingredient in preventing cavities and strengthening enamel.
• Taste Preferences: Some children may not like the taste, despite the kid-friendly flavors.
• Price: Burt’s Bees products can be more expensive compared to other children’s toothpaste brands.
• Availability: May not be available in all stores, requiring online purchases or visits to specific retailers.

Parent Testimonial:

One parent shared their experience using Burt’s Bees Kids Toothpaste: “I started using Burt’s Bees Kids Toothpaste for my 4-year-old, and it has been great. She loves the taste, and I feel good knowing it’s made with natural ingredients.”

2. Hello Unicorn Sparkle (Bubblegum)

Hello brand offers a bubblegum-flavored toothpaste called Unicorn Sparkle, which is a hit with kids. It is also SLS-free, which helps prevent canker sores.

Features:

• Flavour: The toothpaste has a unique bubblegum flavour that makes brushing more pleasant for kids.
• Fluoride Content: Contains fluoride to help strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
• Natural Ingredients: Made with natural sweeteners and flavours, It is formulated without sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), dyes, and sweeteners.
• Packaging: Comes in a colorful, unicorn-themed tube that attracts children’s attention and encourages regular brushing.

Pros

• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The bubblegum flavour is well-liked by children, making it easier to encourage them to brush their teeth regularly.
• Appealing Design: The unicorn sparkle theme is visually attractive to kids, adding an element of fun to their oral hygiene routine.
• Effective Cleaning: Contains fluoride, which is essential for preventing cavities and maintaining dental health.
• Natural Ingredients: Parents can feel good about the natural ingredients used in the toothpaste, avoiding unnecessary chemicals.

Cons:

• Not Suitable for Adults: While some adults may enjoy the flavour, it might not be as effective for adult dental needs compared to specialized adult toothpaste.
• Limited Availability: Depending on the location, it might be harder to find in stores compared to more common brands.

Parent Testimonial:

One parent mentioned switching to Hello Unicorn Sparkle Kids Toothpaste because their child preferred the taste and found it more enjoyable than traditional mint-flavoured toothpaste. This change helped establish a more consistent brushing routine for their child.

D. Organic and Zero-Waste

It is difficult to find a safe-to-swallow, plastic-free toothpaste for toddlers.

1. Bite Toothpaste Bits

If you’re looking for a zero-waste option, Bite has you covered with their toothpaste bits, conveniently packaged in glass jars with metal lids. These bits can be pre-crushed for easier use by children.

Features:

• Fluoride: Contains Sodium Monofluorophosphate for cavity prevention and strengthening teeth.
• Perfectly Portioned: Each bit provides the right amount of toothpaste.
• Zero-Waste: Refillable jar and compostable refill pouches reduce plastic waste.
• Travel-Friendly: TSA-approved and convenient for travel.
• Free of Harsh Chemicals: No SLS, artificial preservatives, flavors, sweeteners, sulfates, dyes, parabens, or gluten.
• Easy to Use: Chew, brush, and smile!

Pros:

• Good for Oral Health: Strengthens teeth, fights cavities, freshens breath, removes plaque, and whitens teeth.
• Environmentally Friendly: Reduces plastic waste and is better for the oceans.
• Hygienic: Eliminates bacteria transfer from shared toothpaste tubes.
• Trusted by Dentists: The product is “trusted by dentists”.
• Positive Customer Reviews: Customers report cleaner teeth, whitening effects, and satisfaction with the product’s effectiveness and sustainability.

Cons:

• Taste or Texture: Some users may need time to adjust to the format of chewing a toothpaste bit.
• Availability: The product may not be as widely available in stores as traditional toothpaste.

Parent Testimonial:

Holly S.: “Both my hygienist and dentist said my teeth were ‘very clean’ at my last appointment, after a few months of using this Bite product. I’m glad it’s working well, on top of reducing my plastic consumption, so I’m sold and will be continuing to use it!”

2. Jack n’ Jill Bio Plastic Tubes

Jack n’ Jill’s tubes are not entirely zero-waste, but they are a more eco-friendly option than traditional plastic tubes thanks to their corn-based bio plastic.

Features:

• Eco-Friendly Material: The tubes are made from bio-plastic, reducing the environmental impact compared to conventional plastic.
• Safe for Children: The toothpaste inside these tubes is free from harmful chemicals such as SLS, fluoride, and artificial preservatives.
• Recyclable: Both the tube and the packaging are recyclable, promoting sustainability.
• Fun Designs: The tubes come with fun animal designs that appeal to children, making brushing more enjoyable.

Pros:

• Environmentally Friendly: Made from renewable resources, these tubes help reduce plastic waste.
• Child-Safe Ingredients: The toothpaste is formulated without harsh chemicals, ensuring it is safe for young children.
• Appealing to Kids: The playful designs encourage children to brush their teeth regularly.
• Recyclable: Supports eco-conscious habits by being fully recyclable.

Cons:

• Higher Cost: Bio-plastic products can be more expensive than their traditional counterparts.
• Limited Availability: It may not be as widely available in all regions or stores.
• Durability: Bio-plastic may not be as durable as traditional plastic, potentially affecting the longevity of the product.

Parent Testimonial:

One parent shared their experience: “I love that Jack n’ Jill Bio Plastic Tubes are both safe for my kids and better for the environment.”

IV. Tips for Getting Kids to Brush

• Make brushing fun

Some parents make toothbrushing a play. You can also use songs or videos to encourage brushing. One example is the Blippi toothbrushing song on YouTube. Toothbrushes in bright colors or with favorite characters can make brushing more fun.

• Let them help

You can let them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste. Another method is to let them brush first and then have a parent do a follow-up brushing.

• Use positive reinforcement.

One parent mentioned using a reward system where better brushing habits were linked to getting sweets. Another suggestion was to create a competition to see who can brush their teeth faster.

• Dental health talks

Talking to children about dental health can sometimes help. Showing pictures of what happens if teeth aren’t taken care of can help them understand.

• Routine and Consistency

Routine and consistency help make toothbrushing a regular part of the day. Setting timers for morning tasks. Some parents have found it helps to brush their teeth right before playtime or bedtime.

• Seek Professional Advice

If you’re still having trouble, ask your dentist for help. Dentists can give advice that is right for your child and may suggest other products or ways to try. Dentists can also remind children about dental hygiene during check-ups.

V. Stories From Parents About Their Experiences With Different Toothpastes.

1. Natural vs. Conventional Toothpaste

Some parents choose natural or fluoride-free toothpastes because they want to avoid chemicals and additives. One parent switched to a natural brand after their child had an adverse reaction to a conventional toothpaste. They found that the natural option was gentler on their child’s gums and still effective in maintaining oral hygiene.

2. Dealing with Sensitivities

Toothpaste sensitivities are a significant issue. Some parents were quick to point out that their children had adverse reactions to certain ingredients, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which is a common ingredient in many toothpastes. Switching to an SLS-free toothpaste solved these problems. Another parent stated that their child was sensitive to mint flavours and chose fruit-flavoured toothpastes instead.

3. Flavor Preferences

Flavour is the key to ensuring children brush their teeth regularly. Fruit-flavoured toothpaste is an excellent choice for many parents, as they are often more appealing to kids than traditional mint flavours. One parent stated that their child loved bubblegum-flavoured toothpaste, which made the daily brushing routine much more enjoyable.

VI. Common Questions about Kids’ Toothpaste

So, let’s recap! Good oral hygiene habits are super important for keeping your teeth and gums in tip-top shape. The best way to do that is to start these habits early, understand the role of genetics, and maintain a consistent routine. That way, you can enjoy healthier teeth and gums throughout your life!
As a parent, you have the awesome responsibility of selecting the best toothpaste for your little ones. And you can make an informed decision when you know about the different options out there. So, share this article with other parents!

VII. Toothpaste comparison chart for kids