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Toothpaste commercials showed you to squeeze your toothpaste tube until you cover all of the top bristles of your toothbrush. Well, we hate to break it to you, but your West Miami dentist does not agree with this. The ideal amount of toothpaste to use should be just a fraction of what commercials are showing. 

Toothpaste Instructions: How Much Is Needed? 

The Dangers of Using Too Much Toothpaste 

When you use too much toothpaste, especially when brushing your children’s teeth, they’ll ingest excessive amounts of fluoride. This can be a problem because their teeth can develop dental fluorosis. Dental fluorosis can result in mild tooth discoloration. Everyone wants pearly white teeth, so this is something you’re going to want to avoid.

Children who brush with too much toothpaste are prone to have brown and yellow stains on their teeth. They can also develop pits in their enamel. For kids under three years old, you’re only required to place a smear of toothpaste on their toothbrushes. That’s about the size of a single piece of rice grain.  

The Dangers of Using Too Little Toothpaste  

This is the part where you need to clarify with your dentist. How much is too much and how little is too little?  

It turns out, putting too little toothpaste is also not good for your oral health because it means you don’t have enough of it present to keep your teeth clean. There also isn’t enough fluoride to protect your teeth against cavities.  

Do You Need an Appointment with a West Miami Dentist?  

If you want to learn more about brushing, we are more than happy to help you. At LP Dental and Cosmetic, we offer superior quality dental services and the best education to our patients to help them achieve optimum dental health and wellness. Call us today for an appointment.