Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
The term “baby bottle tooth decay” refers to caries (cavities) in early childhood, which occur in toddlers and infants. When baby bottle tooth decay may affect any or all of the teeth, it is usually more prevalent in the front teeth on the upper jaw.
The pediatric dentist may not be able to save the affected tooth if the condition becomes too severe. In these cases, the damaged tooth is removed, and a space maintainer is placed to prevent the remaining teeth from misaligning. Scheduling regular dental checkups and implementing a good dental routine at home can completely prevent baby bottle tooth decay.
How does baby bottle tooth decay start?
Tooth decay is caused by acid-producing bacteria in the oral cavity. These bacteria may initially be transmitted from mother or father to baby through saliva. When parents share a spoon with their baby or clean a pacifier with their mouths, their bacteria invade the baby’s mouth.
However, the most prominent cause of baby bottle tooth decay is frequent exposure to sweetened liquids. These liquids include baby formula, breast milk, sweetened water, and juice – almost any fluid a parent might fill a baby bottle with.
When sweetened liquids are given before naptime or bedtime, children are at high risk of developing baby bottle tooth decay because the sweeteners remain in the mouth for an extended period. Oral bacteria feed on the sugar around teeth and emit harmful acids. These acids then wear away tooth enamel and cause painful cavities and pediatric tooth decay.
What can I do at home to prevent baby bottle tooth decay?
Baby bottle tooth decay can be completely prevented at home. Scheduling regular dental appointments and following the guidelines below will keep the child’s smile bright, beautiful, and free of decay:
Avoid placing sugary drinks in baby bottles or sippy cups. Only fill these containers with water, breast milk, or formula. When the child is twelve months old, encourage him/her to use a regular cup (rather than a sippy cup).
Review and be aware of the child’s eating habits. Eliminate sugar-filled snacks and encourage a healthy, nutrient-dense diet.
Try not to transmit bacteria to the child via saliva exchange. Rinse dirty pacifiers and toys in clean water, and use a clean spoon for each person during mealtimes.
Use a clean washcloth to clean gums after every feeding.
Use an age-appropriate appropriate toothbrush along with an ADA-approved toothpaste to brush when teeth begin to emerge. Fluoride-free toothpaste is recommended for children less than two years of age.
Use a pea-sized amount of ADA-approved fluoridated toothpaste when the child has mastered the art of “spitting out” excess toothpaste. Overconsumption of fluoride can result in a condition called fluorosis.
Do not dip pacifiers in sweetened liquids (honey, syrup, etc.).
Do not allow the child to take a liquid-filled bottle to bed. If the child is thirsty, fill the bottle with water instead of a sugary alternative.
Brush the child’s teeth until he or she reaches the age of seven. Assist or guide the child if he/she insists on brushing their teeth. Children are often unable to reach certain places in the mouth prior to this age.
Schedule regular dental check-ups with your dentist
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Andrew Kim, DDS is an Escondido dentist providing advanced dental treatment to the Escondido communities and the Northern San Diego area. We make your comfort and oral health our top priority. Book your appointment today!