How much is too much?

Children seem to use a little too much toothpaste when they brush their teeth.  It is important to monitor your child when it comes to dispensing  the appropriate amount of fluoride containing toothpaste.  Fluoride containing toothpaste is essential for cavity protection and good dental health. Consumption of too much fluoride containing toothpaste may lead to interference with the developing permanent teeth, GI upset and with gross consumption, a risk for a fatal event.  Be sure to supervise your children's daily brushing and flossing.  A smear of paste is appropriate for a child that is unable to expectoarte the paste upon completion of brushing. For those children who have mastered the ability to expectorate after brushing, a pea size of paste should be used twice daily with supervision.