Rice grain or pea? Getting the toothpaste amount right
Fluoride toothpaste is the single best cavity protection for children. The trick is the amount.
Fluoride toothpaste is one of the most effective, best-studied ways to prevent tooth decay. Children's dental guidelines worldwide now recommend fluoride toothpaste from the very first tooth - in a carefully small amount.
The two sizes to remember
- Under 3 years: a smear the size of a grain of rice.
- 3 to 6 years: a pea-sized amount.
Check the tube for the fluoride level. Around 1000 ppm is the usual minimum for children; from about age 6, a family paste of 1450 ppm is typical. Your dentist may suggest something different for a child at high risk.
Why not more?
Young children swallow a lot of what goes in their mouths. Keeping to the small amount gives the protective effect while avoiding mild white flecks on developing adult teeth (fluorosis) from swallowing too much over time.
Small amount. Twice a day. Spit, don't rinse.
Make brushing predictable at home
A brushing calendar, a 2-minute spell timer, streaks and awards for kids — free, no sign-up.
General information for healthy children. It does not replace an examination by a dentist.