What size should fluorinated toothpaste be for children under 3 years old?

For children under 3 years old, the recommended amount of fluorinated toothpaste is about the size of a grain of rice. This small amount is advised to minimize the risk of dental fluorosis, which can occur if young children ingest too much fluoride while their teeth are still developing. The grain size of rice is sufficient to ensure that infants and toddlers receive the benefits of fluoride in strengthening their teeth and preventing cavities, while also limiting the amount that can be accidentally swallowed.

Using larger amounts, such as a pea size or half-pea size, increases the likelihood that a child will swallow an excess of fluoride. A full teaspoon is far too much for a child in this age group, increasing the risk of both ingestion and dental fluorosis significantly. Thus, the rice grain size strikes a balance between effective oral hygiene and safety for young children.