It's common knowledge that excess sugar consumption can lead to cavities for children and adults, but did you know even babies can experience tooth decay? While your baby isn't likely eating candy and ice cream, what they drink can impact the health of their teeth.
Dr. Marvin Olim, family dentist in Katy, TX, can help you ensure your baby's teeth stay clean, strong, and healthy during the bottle feeding stage and beyond.
What causes baby bottle tooth decay?
Decay is caused when food and sugars make contact with the teeth for a prolonged period of time. Sucking on a lollipop or sipping a soda are potential sources of tooth decay for youth and adults, and for babies nursing on a bottle, whether filled with formula, milk, or juice can have the same effect. Because a bottle limits the flow of liquid, your baby is likely to take a while to finish it, which allows the drink to linger on their teeth and lead to bacterial growth and then decay. While baby teeth do fall out eventually, it is still unhealthy for them to develop cavities, plaque, and tartar, which can impact overall oral health.
How can I prevent baby bottle tooth decay?
Make sure you are only providing your baby nutritious, unsweetened beverages in their bottle. While juice may seem healthy, it is high in natural sugars which can cause decay. Your baby shouldn't be allowed an extensive amount of time to drink from their bottle, or to take it with them to bed.
If your child is old enough to drink without a nipple bottle or sippy cup, try introducing a cup with a narrow opening for minimal spillage.
As soon as your baby's teeth start to come in, begin brushing them twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and a tiny squeeze of toothpaste with fluoride. You can assist toddlers with brushing, setting a timer for two minutes, and helping them reach the backs of their teeth. Once they are old enough to brush their teeth independently they can also start flossing.
Make sure to schedule regular teeth cleanings and exams for your child with your family dentist in Katy, TX.
Set your baby on the path for lifelong oral health with the care of family dentist Dr. Olim in Katy, TX. Call us today at 281-206-0249.