Food flavoured toothpaste
Overview
Flavoured toothpastes are a fun and appealing option for children, especially those who might be sensitive to strong mint flavours. Some toothpastes marketed to children come in flavours like strawberry, apple, or even ice cream. While some of these can be found in supermarkets, a wider variety is available online.
What to look out for
It’s important to use toothpaste with the right amount of fluoride to help protect teeth. Check the label on the tube, it should say 1350 to 1500 ppm fluoride (most adult toothpastes have this). If the fluoride level is right, the toothpaste is safe to use for both children and adults. Make sure to watch your child while they brush, to help them use the right amount and to make sure they don’t swallow the toothpaste like food.
Top Tip
HiSmile is a popular toothpaste brand that comes in lots of fun flavours. But it only has 1000 ppm fluoride, which isn’t the best choice if other options are available. If your child doesn’t like other toothpastes and will only use HiSmile, it can be OK to use.
It’s also fine for older children or adults to use children's toothpaste - just make sure it has the right amount of fluoride (1350–1500 ppm) to protect their teeth.
For some autistic children this toothpaste can be useful if:
For children who are sensitive to strong flavours, a fruit flavoured toothpaste without the tingling or coolness of the mint may be a milder, more enjoyable alternative. These types of toothpaste can offer a gentle introduction to toothbrushing, reducing the potential sensory overload.
Your child is sensitive to strong flavours or does not like mint toothpaste
The taste of some toothpaste such as strawberry flavoured may be associated with food that your child likes to enjoy. This may make the toothbrushing experience less intimidating. It's important however, to use a small amount to prevent intake.
Your child prefers a certain flavour such as strawberry
The novelty of brushing with a flavour that resembles a treat can be intriguing and engaging for children. Having a food-flavoured toothpaste may make toothbrushing a fun part of the routine.
You want to make toothbrushing novel/fun
How to apply toothpaste
Here’s a visual guide from Mini Mouth Care Matters on how to apply toothpaste correctly. This is part of a wider set of resources for professionals working in Special Education Settings. Further information is available here.
Key messages
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Jump straight to what parents and early years professionals have said about different types of toothpaste.
