Which toothpaste should you use?
Quick answer
How do I choose toothpaste and use fluoride safely?
For most people in the UK, routine advice is to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste; adults commonly use 1,350–1,500 ppm fluoride.
Children need age-appropriate amounts, and a dentist may prescribe a stronger paste for higher decay risk. Spit after brushing and avoid rinsing straight away.
How much fluoride should toothpaste contain?
For general prevention, UK guidance recommends age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste. Adults and children aged 7 and over generally use toothpaste containing 1,350–1,500 parts per million (ppm) fluoride. For younger children, the amount matters: a smear under age 3 and a pea-sized amount from ages 3 to 6, with adult supervision to reduce swallowing.
See the government’s Delivering Better Oral Health fluoride guidance for the full age-based recommendations.
Should you rinse after brushing?
Brush for about two minutes twice a day, including last thing at night. Spit out excess toothpaste rather than rinsing with water immediately, so you do not wash away much of the fluoride left on the teeth. If you use mouthwash, use it at a different time unless your dental team advises otherwise.
When might you need a different toothpaste?
A dentist may recommend prescription-strength fluoride for someone at higher risk of decay, such as a person with reduced saliva or recurrent decay. It is not a routine upgrade for everyone and should be used exactly as directed and reviewed by a dental professional. Ask at your next check-up if you are unsure which product suits you.
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