Did you know that babies can develop cavities? Baby bottle tooth decay is one of the most common dental concerns in both infants and toddlers. Thankfully, it can be prevented with the right care and attention, giving your little one the best opportunity for a beautiful, healthy smile.
This article explores everything you need to know to protect your child from this unwanted tooth decay.
What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?
Also known as early childhood caries, baby bottle tooth decay is a condition that occurs when a child’s teeth are consistently exposed to sugary beverages. Milk, fruit juice, formula, and even sweetened water can all wreak havoc on their oral health, regardless of the number of teeth they have—or if they are even fully erupted.
Many young children use a bottle with these sugary liquids throughout the day and as comfort when falling asleep at night. What happens, however, is that the sugar stays on the teeth long after the bottle is empty. The bacteria in the mouth then feed on these sugars and create acids that wear down the tooth’s enamel. The result? Cavities.
Yes, Baby Teeth Matter
There is a common misconception that baby teeth are not as important as permanent teeth. But while they do fall out, they still play a significant role in your child’s oral health. They are essential for proper speech development and getting the right nutrition through chewing. These primary teeth also hold space for permanent teeth.
So, what happens when they are overcome with decay? Without treatment, they can be lost early. This can lead to bite misalignment issues, pain and discomfort, as well as more complex and costly dental procedures down the road.
Baby teeth are important. Because they are vulnerable to baby bottle tooth decay, steps need to be taken to protect them.
Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Small, consistent changes to habits can significantly reduce your child’s risk of this condition. Let’s look at a few things you can start doing today to make a positive difference.
Water at Bedtime
If you are putting your little one down to sleep, try offering plain water—no juice or milk. This should still bring the comfort of the bottle without the sugars.
Have an Oral Hygiene Routine
It is never too early to start oral care for your child. Even before the first tooth breaks through, you should gently wipe the gums with a soft, damp cloth after feeding. As teeth come in, a soft infant toothbrush can be used.
Develop Healthy Habits
Reduce the amount of sugary beverages your child has each day. If they want drinks throughout the day, let it be water.
Schedule Routine Dental Visits
One of the best things you can do for your child’s oral health is to ensure they see the dentist for the first time by one year of age. Then, these visits should continue regularly going forward.
Starting early allows the dentist to monitor for signs of decay, addressing problem areas as soon as they appear. These visits also provide you with knowledge and tips that you can use at home to set your child up for success.
Don’t overlook the importance of early dental care.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should my child stop using a bottle?
On average, most kids should transition from a bottle entirely at around 12 to 18 months. This can ensure healthy oral development while reducing the risk of baby bottle tooth decay.
What are the signs of tooth decay?
Monitor your child’s teeth for any spots or discoloration—brown, white, gray, etc. Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold is also a good indicator, though young children can’t express this. So, look for reactions to food and beverages or changes in behavior regarding them. Your child’s pediatric dentist will be able to catch any signs of decay.
At Pediatric Dentistry Kahala in Honolulu, we believe in being proactive when it comes to oral health. By taking small steps of prevention, you can protect your child’s smile and build a strong foundation for their dental health. Are you ready to give your child a great start? Schedule your appointment today.