There’s an understandable temptation to think of children as miniature adults. After all, look at their hats and shoes! In a bigger version, adults could wear ‘em. (Until you take a closer look at some of the colours and styles.) What about the food, though? How many adults would be satisfied — nutritionally and otherwise — with a diet of formula, pablum and pureed peas? An infant’s diet wouldn’t sustain an adult, because people of different ages have different dietary needs. The same principle extends beyond food and even applies to toothpaste. What’s the difference between toothpaste for kids and adults? And do the differences matter?
Fluoride content may vary
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps to restore minerals lost from tooth enamel and helps to fight off harmful bacteria that can contribute to tooth decay and the development of cavities. You can find fluoride in many different toothpastes for all ages, though in varying amounts. Kids’ toothpaste should (and does) contain higher concentrations of fluoride to protect kids’ vulnerable teeth. If kids use adult toothpaste with lower fluoride content, they’ll be missing out on protection. To learn about the ideal amount of fluoride your child should receive, ask a pediatric dentist in Edmonton what’s right for your child.
Kids’ toothpaste is safer to swallow
First things first — no one of any age should swallow toothpaste. But let’s face it, kids are more likely to swallow toothpaste while learning to take care of their teeth than grownups who have the routine down pat — especially kids under the age of six may not even be able to spit it out very well. Toothpaste for children is specifically designed and formulated to be safe if swallowed. It should be discouraged in all cases, but using kids’ toothpaste makes it safer. If your child has to use adult toothpaste in a pinch, be extra careful to avoid him or her swallowing.
Kids’ toothpaste is gentler
Brushing your teeth with toothpaste cleans those teeth in several ways. One of those ways is through basic abrasion. Toothpastes come in different levels of abrasion. (Think of how abrasive a scouring pad is compared to how soft a piece of Kleenex is.) Adults’ toothpaste is much more abrasive than kids’ toothpaste, and too abrasive for growing and developing teeth. In fact, many adults use products that are too abrasive especially combined with overly aggressive brushing. When choosing your child’s toothpaste, choose one abrasive enough to do the job without causing any harm. When in doubt, err on the side of gentle and ask the staff at a dental clinic in Edmonton for advice about the best products for your child.
Kids’ toothpastes are more interesting
“Interesting” may not be a criteria that grown-ups worry much about. But parents seeking to instil early and long-lasting dental hygiene habits, “interesting” toothpaste can help. Toothpastes (and their packaging) for kids comes in colours, styles and flavours tailored to kids’ varying interests. Whether it’s sports, superheroes or cartoons — and more — you can find toothpaste and toothbrushes that your child will be excited to use. When trying to establish good hygiene habits in your child, don’t settle for boring tools when much more interesting options are available.
Could an adult use kids’ toothpaste? Sure, but adults wouldn’t see the results they expect. Could kids use an adult’s toothpaste? In a pinch, it’d be better than skipping essential oral hygiene, but adult’s toothpaste is harsher, less interesting and less beneficial to kids than toothpaste made just for them. Once the pinch has passed, stock up on toothpaste just for your kids. If you have any other questions about caring for your kids’ teeth — related to toothbrushes, toothpastes, checkups, cavities or more — contact a children’s dentist in Edmonton. A children’s dentist near you is one of your best possible partners to ensure your kid’s oral health.
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