Understanding and Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Did you know that the most prevalent childhood condition is tooth decay? Tooth decay can affect kids of any age, including infants and young children. A good thing is that tooth decay is preventable!

What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?
It is a type of tooth decay affecting infants who use bottles. Baby bottle tooth decay is brought about by over-exposure to high-sugar drinks, primarily affecting the upper front teeth as they are closer to the bottle and regularly touch it.

The initial symptoms of this condition are white spots on the gum line or teeth surface. Your child or infant may also exhibit pain and sensitivity in the affected area. If the condition continues untreated, you will also see black or brown spots on teeth, swollen or bleeding gums, fever, and bad breath. Apart from difficulty eating and speech problems, the disease may also cause damage to permanent teeth.

How to Prevent Baby Bottle Tooth Decay in Infants and Toddlers
It is the parent’s responsibility to maintain a child’s oral health. You can start with these tips to avoid baby tooth decay and avoid taking a trip to the dentist.

• Reduce sugary treats between meals
• Do not dip the child’s pacifier in corn syrup, maple syrup, or sugar
• The bottle should only hold formula, milk, or water
• Stop bottle feeding by age one
• If your child has to take juice, dilute it by two
• Please do not send your child to bed with a bottle to make them sleep unless the bottle contains water

Book an Appointment for your Child
It would help if you took your child to a dentist upon the eruption of his first tooth or at the age of 6 months or so. Visit Yonge & 7 Dental office in Toronto and see a dental expert who will assess your child’s risk for the disease and provide customized tips to avoid gingivitis, cavities, and other oral health issues. Read our educational article about the tips every parent should know about their children's teeth and stay safe.

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