Why do some dentists not recommend toothpaste use until kindergarten age?
Many of today’s toothpaste contain fluoride to help combat decay. In small children, fluoride can cause nausea and vomiting if consumed in moderate quantities. Excessive fluoride consumption during tooth formation may cause a condition called fluorosis which manifests itself as a discoloration or mottling of the developing enamel. Many toothpaste manufacturers add artificial flavoring to enhance the taste of toothpaste and encourage use. However, the artificial flavors can be a risk, especially to unsupervised children who may find the taste to toothpaste too pleasant. For this reason, the AAPD recommends no use of fluoridated toothpaste for children under the age of 2. Q: Why use fluoride if it can damage teeth? A: At the correct dosage, fluoride makes teeth stronger both chemically and physically. It also aids in the process of remineralization or the healing and reversal of a developing carious lesion (cavity). Children who are exposed to fluoride may expect to have 50-65% fewer cav
