Fluoride-Free Toothpastes
Purpose
Toothpaste without fluoride for children
Description
Fluoride is a mineral that makes teeth enamel stronger and more resistant to cavity-forming acids, but children under 3 years of age
should NOT use fluoride. If used in excess, fluoride can cause stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or fluorosis (white spotting and pitting
on the teeth). Extreme fluorosis can cause heavily pitted teeth or permanently damaged enamel, but this is rare. Infants do not need toothpaste at all, and toddlers under the age of 3 years should only use a very small amount (size of a grain of rice) of fluoride-free toothpaste unless their dentist recommends otherwise. It is very important to discuss fluoride use with your dentist if you have a family history of cavities and oral disease or if your public water supply is not fluoridated.
Speak with your dentist to determine the right age to introduce fluoride-free toothpaste to your toddler and to determine if you
need to use fluoridated toothpaste before the age of 3 years.
Tips
Many brands make fluoride-free toothpaste. Kids’ fluoride-free (and regular) toothpastes come in many different flavors that appeal to toddlers but can be filled with artificial
sweeteners. It’s best to avoid toothpastes with sweeteners and limit sugary foods in your toddler’s diet to prevent caries (cavities).
XyliWhite toothpaste uses Xylitol as the sweetener, which is a naturally occurring alcohol found in plants and is
sweet.