Toothpaste: when should we begin using it and how much should we use?

An amount equal to a grain of rice of adult strength fluoridated toothpaste on the brush should be introduced when the baby teeth start erupting into the mouth.Prior to that, parents should clean the child’s teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. When toothpaste is used, parents should supervise the child’s brushing and make sure the child uses no more than a pea-sized amount on the brush. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.