The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends that parents start brushing their child's teeth with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste once teeth start to erupt. It is important to use the right amount of toothpaste, especially for kids under 2 years old, to prevent your child from swallowing fluoride toothpaste. Use a small smear of toothpaste, about the size of a rice grain, until your child can spit after brushing (usually around age 3). You can also consider a toothpaste brand that offers kid-friendly flavors. You can find a list of approved children's toothpastes and dental hygiene products from the American Dental Association.