Can Too Much Toothpaste Be Bad for You?

There's much talk and information about what toothbrushes do for the health and appearance of our smiles. However, rarely is toothpaste the main point of the conversation when it comes to oral practices and dentistry procedures. A qualified dentist in Fort Lauderdale can tell you how much toothpaste is necessary and what can happen to your children's teeth if they disregard this issue.

How Much Toothpaste Should You Use?

Before you brush your teeth tonight, consider the following rule: when putting toothpaste over the bristles of your toothbrush, the dab should be the size of a pea. This amount applies to adults and children over six, and you should pair it up with a soft bristle toothbrush and floss.

Using toothpaste wisely can prevent cavities, tooth loss, and gum disease. However, kids under eight don’t have fully developed teeth and gums. When they use more than the recommended toothpaste dosage, it can lead to a condition known as dental fluorosis, which causes yellow or white stains to form in their teeth and, in severe cases, cavities.

Consequences of Kids Overusing Toothpaste

Yellow Teeth

Using a lot of toothpaste can create yellow or white spots in your kids' smiles. Since children usually swallow after brushing their teeth, using too much toothpaste may make them drink more fluoride than they should, staining their teeth.

Cavities

In extreme cases, too much fluoride at a young age can damage the enamel in your child’s teeth, creating pits and brown stains and putting their mouth at risk of cavities.

Looking for a Dentist in Fort Lauderdale to Take Care of Your Smile?

Using the wrong amount of toothpaste can harm kids' health, resulting in yellow teeth and sometimes cavities. Dentists at 1500 Dental want to educate their patients about dental health while fixing their teeth, so book an appointment with us today to get your smile in its best shape.