Any dentists? A question about toothpaste

[sergeantmajor]

My 18yo ds hates hates hates brushing his teeth. Almost to the point of phobia. He brushes once a day, having to steel himself first, and says it's the worst part of his life! It's a sensory thing around the toothpaste.

I've bought low foam fluoride toothpaste, which is an improvement, but it's still a big issue for him. So I wonder... does toothpaste have to contain fluoride? Could he try a non-fluoride toothpaste (there's a wider choice of flavours and non-foam options) and then rinse with a fluoride mouthwash?

He wears a fixed brace, if that makes a difference. Would be very grateful for advice or recommendations.

Have you tried oranurse toothpaste? I would advise using fluoride toothpaste as mouthwash is not a good substitute.

Hi!
I'm an orthodontic dental nurse :-)
Please please please do not use a toothpaste without fluoride, especially with a fixed brace on! It's the most important bit- it's what helps prevents holes and decay. It's so important that during brace treatment good oral hygiene is in place, otherwise your son could end up with decalcification (irreversible brown stains) or the brace treatment could be stopped early.
For non foaming pastes you want to look for pastes which don't contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) - that's the foaming agent. There are lots of brands that have toothpaste without it in.
He could use fluoride mouthwash at a time separate to when he brushes for an extra boost of it, and make sure he is using interdental brushes to clean around his brace.

Hope this helps x

Much appreciated! I will take your advice.

There's a flavour free toothpaste called Oranurse. I think you can get samples from their website. It has been particularly developed for people who struggle with sensory issues. The added bonus is that it has the recommended level of fluoride. I'd also watch the frequency of anything sugary, even fruit. It's advisable to restrict to mealtimes.