How to prevent baby bottle tooth decay

Baby bottle tooth decay happens when sugary liquids stay on the teeth for long periods of time. These include sweetened liquids such as juice and even ones with natural sugars such as milk and formula. It is especially harmful when children are put to sleep with a bottle whether for the night or even nap time. The bacteria in the mouth thrive on the sugar which causes acids to attack the teeth and cause decay. The flow of saliva decreases when sleeping and therefore the sugar is just sitting on the teeth.

 Baby teeth are temporary but that does not mean they are not important. They are obviously necessary for chewing and they serve as placeholders for the adult teeth. If a tooth comes out too early, it can cause crowding in the adult teeth. If baby bottle tooth decay is left untreated it can cause the child pain and infection.

 So there are some simple ways to avoid baby bottle tooth decay. Here’s how:

·         Start wiping your baby’s gums with a damp washcloth a few times during the day even before the first tooth comes in.

·         Once the first tooth comes in, start brushing using a soft bristled tooth brush without toothpaste.

·         Do not put sugary liquids into a bottle. These include: juices and soft drinks. Keep the bottle use limited to milk, formula, and water.

·         Never put baby to sleep with anything other than water.

·         Never give your child a pacifier dipped in anything sweet. Ex: syrup.

·         Limit your child’s sugar intake between meals.

·         Start introducing your child to the Dentist at a young age. (Around 2 years old) Making it a positive experience for them. Short successive visits will help build trust in the dentist.