What is the recommended age for a child to start using fluoride toothpaste?

The recommended age for a child to begin using fluoride toothpaste is indeed around the age of 2, with supervision to minimize swallowing. This recommendation is based on the importance of balancing the benefits of fluoride in preventing tooth decay with the need to prevent excess fluoride ingestion, which can lead to dental fluorosis or other issues.

Starting fluoride toothpaste at age 2 allows children to begin developing proper oral hygiene habits early while still being closely supervised by caregivers. At this age, children typically have more control over their swallowing reflex and are starting to learn how to spit out toothpaste rather than swallow it. Caregiver supervision is crucial to ensure that only a small amount of toothpaste—about a smear or pea-sized amount—is used, which is both effective and safe.

Choosing to introduce fluoride toothpaste earlier or later than this age may not provide the optimal benefits for protecting against cavities, especially given that decay can begin as soon as the first tooth erupts, around 6 months of age. Therefore, starting at age 2 is a balanced approach, focusing on both prevention of dental issues and safety concerning fluoride intake.