You are never too young to get a cavity. In fact, babies can get them. It is called Baby Bottle Tooth Decay and occurs when milk and juice from bottles pool in a baby’s mouth, especially at night. The prolonged exposure of sugary liquids causes cavities.
Another cause of Baby Bottle Tooth Decay is when a parent transfers oral bacteria from their mouth to their baby’s mouth.
This is passed through saliva when a parent cleans their baby’s spoon or pacifier in their mouth then gives it to the baby. Tooth decay in babies and toddlers also occurs when they are not receiving an adequate amount of fluoride. Fortunately, tooth decay is preventable and it all begins with a visit to the dentist as early as 6 months old or when their first tooth emerges. Starting early is key to a lifetime of good dental health.
Our Walled Lake Dental Office wants to help you keep and maintain your child’s teeth for a life time. The following article on Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay is helpful. It’s a great place to start. Have a look.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay in Your Baby
Take the following steps to prevent tooth decay:
Take good care of your own oral health even before your baby is born. It is important and OK to see a dentist for oral care while you are pregnant.
Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, it is important to take good care of your baby’s teeth.
Birth to 12 months: Keep your baby’s mouth clean by gently wiping the gums with a clean baby washcloth. Once you see the first teeth, gently brush using a soft baby toothbrush and a smear (grain of rice) of fluoride toothpaste.
12 to 36 months: Brush your child’s teeth 2 times per day for 2 minutes. Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste until your child’s third birthday. The best times to brush are after breakfast and before bed.
Never put your child to bed with a bottle or food. This not only exposes your child’s teeth to sugars but can also put your child at risk for ear infections and choking. Read Full article here.
If you are the parent of a child and want to build the foundation for a healthy smile, call our Walled Lake office today! Our skilled and “kid-focused” approach to children’s dentistry is something you and your children can feel good about. Parents have plenty to worry about, when it comes to your child’s oral health, we take this seriously.
Unfortunately, kids can develop tooth decay at an early age. Dr. Hechtman and his staff are always on the lookout for cavities and other oral concerns to ensure the proper development towards good overall hygiene. Call today for an appointment or visit us at https://walledlakedentist.com/ to learn more!