The recommended amount of toothpaste to use is a pea-sized amount for adults and children over 3 years old. For children 3 years and under, a smaller rice- sized smear (about the size of a grain of rice) is advised. This amount provides enough fluoride for effective cleaning and cavity protection without the risk of excessive ingestion, especially important for young children. Brushing twice a day with this amount and not rinsing excessively afterward helps maintain fluoride's protective effect on teeth.
