Being a new parent can be overwhelming! Diapers, bottles, and suddenly a tiny human who depends on your for support and love in the most vulnerable of ways. Let’s look at a common concern of parents–Baby Bottle Tooth Decay– as well as what to do to prevent it for your child.
As with most dental health issues, Baby Bottle Tooth Decay can be prevented. You can keep your child from developing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (also called Early Childhood Caries) by starting an oral hygiene habit a few days after they are born, by gently wiping the gums with a clean gauze pad. Continue this exercise every day after each feeding. When the child gets her or his first tooth, begin brushing teeth very gently with a very soft-bristled brush and a rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. Both of these practices prevent plaque from staying on your child’s new teeth, which would cause decay. Continue to assist your child (and then supervise) brushing teeth until your child is about 6 or 7, when you can trust them to complete the task safely on their own.
Only put breast milk, milk, or formula in baby’s bottles. Even then, prolonged exposure to the sugary liquid could contribute to Baby Bottle Tooth Decay. Thus, babies should finish drinking their bottle before naptime or bedtime.
For more information, call Olympia Pediatric Dentistry in Olympia, Washington, at 360-352-3515. Dr. Andrea Mason and our team are happy to help!