When should children begin using toothpaste and how much should they use?

The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush. As soon as their teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily. Use a small “dot” of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child 2 years of age and younger. For the 3-6 year old, dispense a “pea-size” amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively so it is important to show them and help them until they are capable of doing it themselves.