Adult
Bottle Tooth Decay in Infants
Good oral health is important at any age. Parents should be especially careful when it comes to their baby’s teeth. One common concern is baby bottle tooth decay, which is the development of cavities or loss of baby teeth as a result of prolonged bottle use. To reduce the risk of dental problems, you should understand the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods for baby bottle tooth decay.
Causes of Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Baby bottle tooth decay develops from excessive exposure to sugar from milk, formula, juice, and other sweetened drinks. These sugars stick to the teeth and lead to the growth of bacteria that can wear away at the enamel and cause cavities. Babies are most at risk for this condition if they are put to bed with a bottle. Tooth decay can also occur if a parent passes cavity-causing bacteria to the baby by cleaning a pacifier or feeding spoon with their mouth.
Signs & Symptoms of Bottle Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is most likely to happen in the upper and lower front teeth but can affect any tooth. You might notice that your baby has developed cavities, which look like black or brown spots or holes in the teeth. White spots on the teeth may be a sign of decay as well. Sometimes, the gums are a better indicator of dental health and might bleed or look swollen or inflamed. Bad breath is another sign of tooth decay. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with a Plantation pediatric dentist or Tamarac pediatric dentist as soon as possible.
How to Prevent Bottle Tooth Decay
Keeping your baby’s teeth clean is the best way to prevent tooth decay, especially after every meal. You can wipe off the teeth with a washcloth or gauze pad after they eat and before they go to sleep to remove any lingering sugar or bacteria. Brush the teeth daily using baby toothpaste and keep the gums clean in the areas where teeth have not yet grown in.
Once the first tooth grows in, you should begin taking your baby to a dentist on a regular basis. During a dental exam, we will check for signs of cavities, decay, or other concerns. We will also perform teeth cleaning to reduce the risk of infection. If you have any questions or concerns about bottle tooth decay, reach out to your pediatric dentist for guidance.
Dedicated Pediatric Dental Care for Your Little One
Caring for your baby’s teeth is a vital part of their overall health and development, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our pediatric dentists, including Dr. Steve Criscuolo and Dr. Mo Sirage, specialize in creating a welcoming environment for young patients, making their dental visits a positive experience from the very beginning. With their extensive training in pediatric dentistry, our team is skilled in addressing early dental concerns like bottle tooth decay and equipping parents with the tools and knowledge to maintain their child’s oral health.
We believe that every child deserves a healthy, beautiful smile, which is why we focus on preventive care and education. From cleaning your baby’s teeth to guiding you on best practices for oral hygiene at home, we are committed to setting the foundation for lifelong dental health. Regular visits with our pediatric dentists can help catch and address issues early, ensuring your child’s smile stays bright and strong as they grow.
Schedule Your Baby’s First Dental Visit Today
Taking your baby to the dentist as soon as their first tooth emerges is one of the most effective ways to prevent bottle tooth decay and other dental issues. At Smile Every Day Dentistry & Orthodontics, we provide gentle, comprehensive care designed with your little one’s comfort in mind. Our pediatric specialists offer personalized guidance, regular cleanings, and thorough exams to ensure your baby’s teeth and gums remain healthy.
With convenient locations in Davie, Tamarac, and Plantation, and a team that truly cares, we make it easy for parents to prioritize their child’s oral health. Schedule your baby’s first dental appointment today, and let us partner with you in giving your child a healthy, happy start to their dental journey.
August 16, 2021