Maintaining healthy baby teeth is exceptionally important. Even though they are temporary, they perform several crucial functions for your child's development.

Baby teeth are essential for clear speech, proper chewing, holding space for permanent teeth, and guiding the tongue's position in the mouth. When baby teeth are lost prematurely, adjacent teeth can shift into the space, potentially leading to impacted adult teeth, the need for extensive orthodontic treatment, and a less than ideal smile.

Babies are susceptible to tooth decay as soon as their first tooth emerges, typically around six months of age. Therefore, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends a first dental checkup with a pediatric dentist around the age of twelve months. Sky Pediatric Dentistry offers special 'Baby Smiles' appointments for children up to 3 years old.

What Is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

The term “baby bottle tooth decay” refers to early childhood caries (cavities) that develop in infants and toddlers. This type of decay can affect any or all of the teeth but is most commonly seen on the front teeth of the upper jaw.

If early childhood tooth decay becomes severe, the pediatric dentist might not be able to save the affected tooth. In such cases, the damaged tooth is removed, and a space maintainer is placed to prevent the remaining teeth from shifting.

Preventing early childhood tooth decay is entirely possible through regular pediatric dental checkups and a consistent home oral care routine.

How Does Baby Bottle Tooth Decay Start?

Tooth decay is caused by acid-producing bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria can initially be transmitted from parents to babies through saliva. Sharing spoons or cleaning pacifiers in a parent's mouth introduces these bacteria into the baby’s oral cavity.

However, the most significant contributor to early childhood tooth decay is frequent exposure to sugary liquids. These include breast milk, baby formula, juice, and sweetened water – virtually any liquid a parent might use in a baby bottle.

Giving sugary liquids as a naptime or bedtime drink is particularly risky because the liquid remains in the mouth for an extended period. Oral bacteria feed on the sugar around the teeth and release harmful acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to painful cavities and early childhood tooth decay.

Infants who don't receive an adequate amount of fluoride are also at increased risk for tooth decay. Fluoride protects tooth enamel by reducing mineral loss and promoting remineralization. Through assessments, the pediatric dentist can determine if a baby needs fluoride supplements or is at high risk for early childhood tooth decay.

What Can I Do At Home To Prevent Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

Preventing early childhood tooth decay relies on committed parental care. Regular dental appointments and following these guidelines will help ensure your child’s smile remains healthy and decay-free:

Avoid saliva exchange with your child. Rinse pacifiers and toys in clean water, and use a clean utensil for each person eating.
Gently clean your baby's gums with a clean, damp washcloth after every feeding.
Once teeth emerge, brush them twice a day with an age-appropriate toothbrush and an ADA-approved toothpaste. Fluoride-free toothpaste is recommended for children under two years old.
Use a smear-sized amount of toothpaste twice a day. Dr. Ashley and the Sky Pediatric Dentistry team can help you choose the best toothpaste for your child.
Avoid putting sugary drinks in baby bottles or sippy cups. Fill these containers only with water, breast milk, or formula. Encourage your child to transition to a regular cup (instead of a sippy cup) around twelve months old.
Do not dip pacifiers in sweet substances like honey.
Evaluate your child’s diet. Limit sugary snacks and encourage a healthy, nutritious intake.
Do not allow your child to take a liquid-filled bottle to bed. If they insist, fill it with water.
Supervise your child’s tooth brushing until they reach the age of seven to ensure all tooth surfaces are cleaned effectively.
Discuss your child’s fluoride needs with the pediatric dentist.

If you have any questions or concerns about early childhood tooth decay, please contact our office.