Most children love their fruity toothpaste—strawberry, cherry, or melon—anything goes, as long as it doesn't taste like mint! But by the age of six at the latest, dentists recommend switching to a "real" toothpaste with a higher fluoride content. Learn why this is important—and how to gently introduce your child to the new toothpaste—here.
Why switch at all?
As permanent teeth emerge, the risk of tooth decay increases—and with it the need for better protection. Children's toothpaste typically contains only 500 ppm fluoride, while adult toothpaste contains 1000–1500 ppm. This amount is essential for the long-lasting protection of new teeth. Unfortunately, fluoride often comes with a sharp mint flavor that puts children off.
“I thought she would never accept mint!” – An interview with a mother
To show that switching toothpaste is not an isolated case, we spoke to Lena (35) , mother of 6-year-old Amelie from Cologne.
Question: Lena, how was the switch from children's to adult toothpaste for you?
Lena: Honestly? It was a disaster! Amelie loved her strawberry toothpaste, and when I gave her mint toothpaste for the first time, she immediately burst into tears and said it "burned in her whole soul." I was close to giving up.
Question: What helped you then?
Lena: I talked to a friend who suggested I gradually mix the toothpaste. Also, Amelie got to choose her own new toothpaste – that helped. And then I stumbled across the Ben & Anna toothpaste in Cinnamon Orange. It really does taste like cola – she was suddenly all for it. Now she brushes her teeth willingly and even for longer than before!
Question: What advice would you give to other parents?
Lena: Don't give up. It's perfectly normal for children to be sensitive to changes – but with a little patience and a product they like, it will work out. For us, it was a real game-changer that there are toothpastes that are not only "healthy" but also tasty.
Three tips for a relaxed transition
1. Mix the toothpaste
A smooth transition can often be achieved by mixing: Simply combine a dab of your child's usual toothpaste with a small drop of adult toothpaste. This way, your child gradually gets used to the new taste – without any shock.
2. Choose the flavor together
Involve your child! Let them choose their new toothpaste themselves – ideally from an exciting, child-friendly selection. When children feel they have a say, the transition is easier.
3. Make the transition playful
Children love stories. So why not invent a toothpaste detective story? For example, "The taste of mint is the secret shield against tooth decay villains." This turns the new ritual into an adventure.
The insider tip: Toothpaste that tastes good – even without strawberries
If your child absolutely refuses to like mint, there's still a solution: Ben & Anna toothpaste in a tube – for example, in "Wild Berry" or "Cinnamon Orange " . Both varieties contain the important active ingredients for adults, but taste surprisingly delicious. Cinnamon Orange even reminds many children of cola – and that suddenly makes the switch very easy.
