Are you putting your infant to bed with a bottle?

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.

 

For more help & advice for great dental health for your little one ask any of our skilled dental professional team members any and all questions at your next routine dental visit.