As parents, we are always looking for ways to comfort our kiddos; especially when it’s bedtime or naptime! However, while giving them a bottle of milk or juice to help them fall asleep might seem harmless, this common habit can actually lead to something called baby bottle tooth decay. Here’s what you need to know about this dental condition, along with some ways you can protect your child’s teeth from an increased chance of cavities.
What Exactly Is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?
Baby bottle tooth decay occurs when a baby’s teeth are frequently exposed to liquids that contain natural or added sugars, like milk, formula, juice, tea, or other sweetened drinks—especially for long periods of time.
When a child falls asleep with a bottle, these liquids can pool around their teeth long after they’ve finished drinking. Bacteria in the mouth will then feed on the sugars and produce acids that attack tooth enamel. The upper front teeth are often the most vulnerable. Over time, this weakens the teeth and leads to cavities. And since baby teeth are thinner and less mineralized than adult teeth, the decay can happen even more quickly.
How Can Baby Bottle Tooth Decay Be Prevented?
Untreated decay can cause pain, infection, and difficulty eating, among other problems. Even though it’s baby teeth in question, these pearly whites still play an important role in your child’s dental development and oral health! That said, prevention and early care are key. Some tips to keep in mind that can help prevent baby bottle tooth decay include:
- Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle. If they need one for comfort, fill it with plain water only—anything else should be given during meals.
- Wipe or brush your baby’s teeth/gums daily, using a soft infant toothbrush or a clean, damp cloth. This is particularly important after feeding sessions.
- Limit sugary drinks in general; juice isn’t normally recommended for infants, nor are other high-sugar beverages, and options like milk and water are the best choices.
- Schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or as soon as their first tooth appears; their dentist can examine their mouth for signs of early decay and provide further guidance on cavity-prevention.
The bottom line is, as convenient as it may be to give your child a bottle to help them sleep—especially after a long day—the higher risk of cavities simply isn’t worth it!
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Myles Clancy and Dr. Sadaf Mostafavian, here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we proudly serve the needs of families in Nashua and the nearby communities. Dr. Clancy is a board-certified pediatric dentist and Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. We offer a wide range of pediatric dental services for children of all ages, including infants. If you have any questions or need to schedule a dental appointment for your child, reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (603) 880-5002.