Many parents put too much toothpaste on their children’s toothbrushes, according to a study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Their research, published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report on February 1, indicate that 38% of 3-6 year olds were using more than US dental professionals recommend. Toddlers thus exceed the recommended daily amounts of fluoride. As their teeth develop, they are at risk of discoloration called “dental fluorosis”.
The CDC survey was conducted among nearly 1,700 children. Fluorosis only affects the latter, as damage only occurs when the teeth grow below the gums. This does not affect overall dental health, but can lead to white lines or streaks on the teeth, the study authors say.
Different recommendations depending on the age
The CDC and the American Dental Association therefore recommend brushing them twice a day with an amount of toothpaste no more than one weight. For children under 3, this dose should not be larger than the size of a grain of rice. Because very young children are more sensitive to fluorosis, but also less able to spit toothpaste in the sink. Which makes them more likely to ingest it, the researchers say. As for babies, the CDC advises parents to wait 2 years of age before using toothpaste containing fluoride.
For Dr Alene Marie D’Alesio, Head of Pediatric Dentistry at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh (United States) questioned by the New-York TimesParents’ difficulties in following brushing guidelines result from the fact that many of them are not present with their children when brushing their teeth. She therefore advises parents not to leave their offspring alone until the age of 6, or even 8.
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