How can I teach my son not to swallow the toothpaste while brushing?

If he's still little just be patient. He'll learn eventually. If he's using yummy flavored kids toothpaste you might try switching to a fluoride free mint flavored toothpaste. It won't taste as good so he won't be as likely to swallow it but if he does it won't be ab ig deal because it doesn't have fluoride.

@pinkpaisley Fluoride is dangerous and should not ever be consumed. Many, many dentists are now coming out against the fluoridation of drinking water. It should never, under any circumstances be given to a baby under 6 months of age. Fluoride can cause all kinds of problems, especially neurological problems. It does not get flushed from the body and easily builds up in bones. There is absolutely no benefit from consuming fluoride. The only time it *might* be beneficial is when it is applied topically (as in toothpaste or dental fluoride treatments).

Do some research before you make claims about what will or will not harm other people's children.

And, only one brand of "baby water" has fluoride in it.

i've been waiting for someone to post something like that about me...damn, i know i'm loved! lol. if flouride is so dangerous, then why has my daughter's dentist been brushing it on her teeth since she was 7 months old? he, and the ped told me to use a flouride toothpaste on her! so, there. now you all have the facts straight! i'm a red-headed bitch...i'll admit it. if you don't like my comments, then don't read them.

i give my daughter the same toothpaste that we use, and she is 2 1/2. we've been giving it to her since she was a year old. her dentist told me that when she had 4-5 teeth, start using a flouride toothpaste instead of that baby/toddler crap. crest, colgate, whatever you like.