Baby bottle tooth decay also known as early childhood caries
can be prevented. At Young and Polite Children’s Dentistry we see many
infant patients and preventative dentistry is very important in our role. What
is baby bottle tooth decay and what can we do to prevent it?
Baby bottle tooth decay is decay usually found in those in
the infant stage who are put to bed with a bottle. The bottle may contain milk,
juice or even breast milk. When the infant falls asleep with the bottle in
their mouth a pool of the liquid forms in the child’s mouth. This pool
surrounds the teeth exposing the mouth to sugar for prolonged amounts of time.
We all know that prolonged exposure of sugar in the mouth
increases the chances for decay. So, it is suggested to never put your infant
to bed with a bottle filled with anything other than water. If your little one
must have a bottle we always recommend to wipe the gums immediately after the
bottle to help eliminate the risk for decay.
Here at Young and Polite Children's Dentistry we strive for all of our patients
to find their dental visits fun. The
best way to do this is with a great checkup.
Help your child be on track for great dental health when you eliminate
the increased risk for early childhood caries.