Tooth Decay with Baby Bottles
Tooth Decay with Baby Bottles
Tooth decay in infants and toddlers is often referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or early childhood caries. Even though milk teeth are temporary still they are important and are also susceptible to cavities. Baby bottle decay often occurs in the upper front teeth, but other teeth may also be affected.
CAUSES:-
Frequent, prolonged exposure of the baby’s teeth to sugary drinks.
It occurs when a baby is put to bed with a bottle, or when a bottle is used as a pacifier.
Coating the pacifier with sweetening agents and putting it in the baby’s mouth during night time.
When the mother puts the baby’s feeding spoon in her mouth or cleans a pacifier in her mouth, the bacteria can be passed to the baby.
If your infant or toddler doesn’t receive an adequate amount of fluoride, they may also have an increased risk of tooth decay.
WAYS OF PREVENTION:-
After every feed, wipe your child’s gum with a clean, damp gauze pad or washcloth.
When your child’s teeth erupt, brush them gently with a child-size toothbrush and a smear of toothpaste until the age of 3.
Brush the teeth with a pea-sized amount of toothpaste from the ages of 3-6.
Prefer only formula milk, milk, or breast milk in bottles. Avoid filling the bottle with sugary liquids, juice, or soft drinks.
Do not dip the pacifiers in sugar or honey.
For more information or guidance regarding you and your child’s dental health, visit your best dentist near Cunningham Road.
