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Kids and fluoride toothpaste: smear, pea-size and spit
A tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste goes a long way for little brushers.
Why amount matters
Young children swallow more paste. Extra swallowed fluoride over years can affect developing enamel appearance.
Typical amounts
Many pediatric groups describe a smear for under-three and a pea-size amount after. Confirm with your clinician.
Supervision
Put the paste on yourself until habits are solid. Store tubes out of reach.
If they swallow a lot once
Call poison control or a clinician for large amounts; a small lick is usually not the same issue.
General information only. Fluorova is not a dental or medical provider and this is not dental or medical advice. Talk with your own dentist about your situation. In an emergency, call 911.