Parenting Blog

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Infants and toddlers can be excessively prone to what is called “Baby Bottle Tooth Decay”. It is the number one dental problem that arises during these first years. Thankfully more and more parents are learning about this through public awareness, but it is still happening. Some parents have heard about it, but do not really understand what it really is. Is your little one at risk for this?

 What exactly is baby bottle tooth decay?

It is the only severe dental condition that is common to babies and toddlers. The enamel decays on the front upper teeth and can lead to infection.

 What causes it?

The major cause of baby bottle tooth decay is allowing the child to go to sleep with their bottle or sippy cup. Sugary liquids such as juice and milk will flow over the front top teeth, and over time can begin to eat away at the enamel. However, the bottom teeth will not be affected as they are protected by the tongue.

 Can I prevent baby bottle tooth decay?

Do not allow you child to fall asleep with a bottle or sippy cup. They may cry and seem to actually need it to go to sleep if they are used to having it. But, try not to give in and let them have it. If you absolutely must give them a bottle or cup at night, make sure the only liquid you allow to be given is tap water.

 The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry offers official guidelines for preventing baby bottle tooth decay.

• Don’t allow your child to walk around with a bottle in their mouth.
• Don’t allow them to go to sleep with a bottle filled with anything other than water.
• Ensure their pacifier, if they use one, is always clean.
• Never dip a pacifier into a sweet liquid.
• If your little one wants a bottle between naps or feedings, soothe them with bottle of cool water.
• Begin trying to make the transition to a sippy cup around one year of age. They should not be using a bottle much after that age.
• Consult a dentist about any dark spots on the teeth or red, swollen areas in the mouth.

 You may feel that you are being loving by comforting your little one with what seems to work the best. By this, I mean letting them continue to have their bottle or cup while falling asleep. However, if it has anything other than water, you are greatly increasing the odds that your child will develop baby bottle tooth decay.

 Since it only affects the top upper teeth, the decay and cavities will be highly visible. Usually it will begin with a white discoloring of spots on the teeth. But, once it begins it is a very rapid process of decaying.

 This can also affect their self esteem, because it will affect that gorgeous smile of theirs! Follow the guidelines above, and you can rest peacefully knowing that your child will not have to suffer from baby bottle tooth decay.