When children suffer from tooth decay, it is often referred to baby bottle tooth decay. In order for your child to grow into a strong, functional, and healthy smile, baby bottle tooth decay needs to be prevented, and we’re thrilled to tell you how to do so.
Baby bottle tooth decay often occurs in the front teeth, but additional teeth are affected as well. This condition generally develops when your child often consumes sugary drinks through a bottle, especially when going to bed. So, to give your child the best and most functional oral cavity possible, we strongly recommend doing the following things:
• Don’t send your child to bed with a bottle full of juice or sugary liquid. It’s best to send them to bed with water. That way the sugar particles won’t attack and harm your child’s smile while they sleep.
• Give your child more milk, formula, and water throughout the day and do your best to cut back on the juice. This will give your child’s teeth a break from the constant fight with sugar.
• After your child eats and drinks, it’s best to wipe their smile with a damp washcloth. This will wash away any bacteria that can harm the gums and teeth.
• Once your child’s teeth grow into place, brush their teeth frequently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Do not dip your child’s pacifier in honey or sugar before giving it to them.
• When your child is old enough, encourage them to drink from a cup rather than a bottle.
Call our office today if you would like more tips about preventing tooth decay or if you would like to schedule an appointment for your child. We look forward to hearing from you!