Tooth decay in infants and very young children is often referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or Early Childhood Caries. This type of tooth decay happens when sweetened liquids or those with natural sugars (like milk, formula, and fruit juice) cling to an infant's teeth for a long time. Bacteria in the mouth thrive on this sugar and make acids that attack the teeth.
At risk are children whose pacifiers are frequently dipped in sugar or syrup. Giving an infant a sugary drink (jello water, kool-aid, soda, sweetened juices) at nap time or nighttime is particularity harmful, as the flow of saliva decreases during sleep.
The good news is that a few simple steps can help stave off baby bottle tooth decay. They include implementing good oral hygiene at an early age, and introducing baby bottles filled with water for naps or bedtime.
• Wipe the baby's gums with a clean gauze pad or washcloth after each feeding.
• Begin brushing your child's teeth, without toothpaste, when his or her first tooth comes in.
• Don't fill bottles with sugar water and soft drinks.
Bottles are for milk, water, or formula. Never give your child a pacifer dipped in anything sweet. (sugar water, soda, or honey)It's never too late to break bad habits. If your child drinks sweetened liquids from the bottle and/or sleeps with a bottle, break the habit now and cut the risk of baby bottle tooth decay by:
• Gradually diluting the bottle contents with water over 2 to 3 weeks.
• Once that period is over, fill the bottle only with water.
Remember that healthy baby teeth will lead to healthy permanent teeth!
Many of the children (greater than 50%) in our practice suffer from Baby Bottle Tooth Decay. Not only is this disease preventable, it can also be very painful and can interfere with speech development, chewing, and smiling.
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Start early do not let your child's teeth go
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