Just because your baby’s first teeth are temporary doesn’t mean they aren’t important. By ensuring your baby’s teeth and gums are healthy, you are giving them a head start on a lifetime of good dental hygiene. Strong, healthy baby teeth are needed so that permanent teeth can come in correctly and speech and eating development stays on course. Like all teeth, primary teeth are susceptible to tooth decay and cavities, and the most common cause of both is “Baby Bottle Tooth Decay.”What Causes Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?
Baby Bottle Tooth Decay most commonly affects a baby’s front teeth, but all teeth are at risk. Tooth decay and cavities in babies can occur when a baby is put to bed with a bottle, causing prolonged exposure to sensitive, growing teeth with a sugary substance like milk or formula. Issues can also occur when a baby is overly attached to a bottle, often using it as a soothing device.
Other ways that tooth decay occurs in babies is via saliva. When a caregiver eats from a spoon given to a baby, or cleans off a pacifier by putting it in his or her mouth, they could potentially spread bacteria that causes cavities. Finally, if your baby does not get enough fluoride, they could have an increased chance of tooth decay.Preventing Cavities & Tooth Decay in Babies
Thankfully, cavities and tooth decay are entirely preventable. You can prevent tooth decay in your baby or toddler by employing the following tips:
Don’t share a spoon or put your baby’s pacifier in your mouth.
Clean your baby’s teeth and gums with a wet washcloth after each feeding.
Be sure to help your child with brushing their teeth with an appropriate toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste when their teeth start to come in.
Only put milk or formula in bottles- never juice, tea, or sodas.
Do not put your child to bed with a bottle.
Encourage healthy eating habits that are low on sugar and start transitioning your baby to a sippy cup at age one.
Make an Appointment
Your baby is ready for his or her first dental appointment at age one. Please be sure to contact our Worcester pediatric dental office, Lahair & Gallagher Dentistry & Orthodontics, to schedule your baby’s first appointment. By starting dental appointments early, you will set a good example for your child and get them started on a lifetime of healthy dental habits.