Fluoride toothpaste efficacy and safety in children younger than 6 years: a systematic review

Limited scientific evidence demonstrates that for children younger than 6 years, fluoride toothpaste use is effective in caries control. Ingesting pea-sized amounts or more can lead to mild fluorosis. Practical Implications. To minimize the risk of fluorosis in children while maximizing the caries-prevention benefit for all age groups, the appropriate amount of fluoride toothpaste should be used by all children regardless of age. Dentists should counsel caregivers by using oral description, visual aids and actual demonstration to help ensure that the appropriate amount of toothpaste is used.