Fluoride toothpaste fights tooth decay in kids

Fluoride toothpaste can help fight tooth decay in kids, says the American Dental Association (ADA).

The ADA recommended in a recent report that kids start using fluoride toothpaste as early as possible, especially given the amount of candy, junk food and sugary drinks consumed today - unhealthy eating habits that increase the risk of cavities and tooth decay. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 16 million children suffer from untreated tooth decay.

Chair of the Council on Scientific Affairs Edmond L. Truelove says that the ADA's fluoride toothpaste endorsement is not a new concept.

"For half a century, the ADA has recommended that patients use fluoride toothpaste to prevent cavities, and a review of scientific research shows that this holds true for all ages," he said in a statement. "Approximately 25 percent of children have or had cavities before entering kindergarten, so it's important to provide guidance to caregivers on the appropriate use of fluoride toothpaste to help prevent their children from developing cavities."

The organization's Council on Scientific Affairs (CSA) established guidelines for parents about how much fluoride toothpaste their toddlers should use. Children under 3 years old should brush daily with a smear of fluoride toothpaste while children ages 3 to 6 can use a pea-size quantity, and infants under 2 years old just plain water.

Despite the clear benefits of fluoride-based toothpastes, the FDA, which posted a poison warning on all bottles in 1997, says to proceed with caution because if a child swallows a large amount, it could cause permanent tooth discoloration, stomach ailments, acute toxicity, skin rashes and impair how the body processes glucose, or sugar.

For kids who are hesitant to try the fluoride toothpaste, Crest has announced plans to come out with a "sweet" alternative Mint Chocolate flavor.

Researchers from the University of Texas Health Science Center found in a past study that chocolate is actually more effective than fluoride in treating cavities due to the extract theobromine.