ADA Updates Fluoride Toothpaste Recommendations for Children
Citing an increased need to prevent early childhood caries (ECC)—the most common chronic childhood disease in the world—the American Dental Association (ADA) Council on Scientific Affairs has released updated guidelines regarding the use of fluoride toothpaste in children.
Citing an increased need to prevent early childhood caries (ECC)—the most common chronic childhood disease in the world—the American Dental Association (ADA) Council on Scientific Affairs has released updated guidelines regarding the use of fluoride toothpaste in children. The recommendations were published in a report titled “Fluoride Toothpaste Use for Young Children,” with the results of a systematic review appearing in the February issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association.
Previously, the ADA recommended fluoride toothpaste for use only among children age 2 or older. The expanded guidelines, however, advise parents and caregivers to offer fluoride toothpaste on toothbrushes as soon as the child’s first tooth comes in—typically around age 1. A smear of toothpaste for children younger than 3 suffices, while children age 3 to age 6 should use a pea-size amount.
From Dimensions of Dental Hygiene. April 2014;12(4):12.
