Baby bottle tooth decay, otherwise referred to as early childhood caries is a condition that affects young children and adolescents. This condition begins when a child’s teeth are frequently exposed to sugary liquids. Bacteria in the mouth convert these sugars into acids, which attack the teeth and cause cavities. This condition can affect teeth of any age, but it tends to affect children under the age of 2 the most.

Who is at Risk for Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

Babies who fall asleep with a bottle of milk, juice, or other sweet liquid are at risk of baby bottle tooth decay. The liquid pools around their teeth and soaks into their gums. This can cause severe tooth decay.

How Common is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

Baby bottle tooth decay is a phrase used to describe discoloration or decay on a baby tooth. This can be caused by leaving a baby with a bottle containing breast milk, formula, juice, or sweetened water for long periods of time.

The sugars in these fluids pool around the child’s teeth while they’re sleeping. Bacteria inside the mouth feed on the sugars and produce acids, which eat through the tooth enamel.

How Can I Prevent Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

Baby bottle tooth decay occurs when a baby’s teeth are repeatedly exposed to sugary liquids for long periods of time. If your baby falls asleep while drinking a bottle or breastfeeding from a bottle, their teeth can decay if sugary liquids remain in their mouths while they sleep. To avoid baby bottle tooth decay, you should only put breast milk or formula in a bottle when you’re feeding your baby. After each feeding, wipe your baby’s gums and teeth with a damp washcloth or gauze pad to remove any remaining sugars and bacteria. Then, you can give them a pacifier to help reduce saliva production. Also, take your child for routine dental checkup to the dentist in Dallas, TX.

If you want to know more about baby tooth decay, visit our Dallas dentist at One Health Dental, located at 4801 S Buckner Blvd Suite 800, Dallas, TX 75227, or book your consultation today by calling us at (214) 275-4808.