Many parents look for fluoride-free toothpaste because young children tend to swallow toothpaste. Before you switch, it helps to know what dental groups recommend and what fluoride-free options can and can't do.
What dental groups recommend
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and the ADA recommend fluoride toothpaste from the first tooth: a smear the size of a grain of rice until age 3, then a pea-sized amount from 3 to 6. At those amounts, swallowing a little is considered safe. Fluoride-free toothpaste cleans teeth but doesn't give the cavity protection those groups attribute to fluoride. So the choice is worth making with your child's dentist, who can look at their cavity risk, your water supply and other sources of fluoride.
If you choose fluoride-free
- Use a tiny amount and supervise brushing until about age 6.
- Brush twice a day for two minutes, and start flossing when teeth touch.
- Watch sugar and snacking, the biggest driver of cavities.
- Keep dental visits every six months so problems are caught early.
Kids toothpastes we stock
| Toothpaste | From the label | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ziaja Baby & Kids Toothgel | Fluoride-free toothgel for babies and children | $12.99 |
| Coral Bubble Berry Kids Toothpaste | Fluoride-free, with xylitol and nano silver | $12.95 |
| Coral Foaming Bubble Berry Kids Toothpaste | Foaming version, with xylitol and nano silver | $16.95 |
| Coral Kids Whitening Bubble Berry | Fluoride-free, with xylitol | $9.95 |
Pair them with a soft kids bamboo toothbrush 4-pack ($10.95). See everything in fluoride-free kids toothpaste, or read our fluoride-free toothpaste guide for adults.
FAQ
Is fluoride-free toothpaste safe for toddlers?
It's safe to use as directed, but it doesn't protect against cavities the way fluoride does. Ask your child's dentist which suits them.
What is xylitol in kids toothpaste?
A sweetener that doesn't feed cavity-causing bacteria the way sugar does. Keep products with xylitol away from dogs, since it's toxic to them.
When should kids start using toothpaste?
As soon as the first tooth comes in, with a rice-grain amount.
Sources: AAPD parent FAQ; ADA MouthHealthy, Fluoride.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Patch-test new products and ask a dermatologist or doctor about skin or health concerns.
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