Understanding Root Canal Procedures

Baby Bottle Mouth: 5 Tips For Preventing Tooth Decay And Cavities In Children

23 February 2015

Diane Mason

Even though baby teeth are temporary, they are still important to your child's health—and like adult teeth, they are also susceptible to cavities and decay. When children have tooth decay, it is usually caused by bottle feedings and is referred to as "baby bottle tooth decay."

If you have a child and you want to keep your little one's teeth clean, follow these five tips for preventing cavities and decay:

1. Keep the Gums and Teeth Clean

Even if your child doesn't have teeth yet, you should still be cleaning their mouth. You can do this by wiping your child's teeth clean with a damp washcloth or gauze pad. Be diligent and do this after every feeding to keep your child's gums healthy and stimulated.

Once your child has teeth—even if it's just one—use a soft bristled toothbrush to gently clean and massage the area after each feeding. 

2. Avoid Sugary Drinks

Like adults, it is important that you do not give your child sugary drinks: soda, juice, sugar water, etc. When you do offer your child juice—or even diluted juice—make sure that you offer it properly. Sugary drinks—even juice—should not go into a bottle. Instead, put the juice or sugary drink into a sippy cup.

3. Finish Feedings Before Bedtime and Naps

It may be tempting to put your child to bed with a bottle, especially if your child is fussy. However, doing so can be extremely bad for their mouth. As your child begins to fall asleep, the milk or water will continue to drip out and rest in the mouth. Bacteria love food and sugar, so they will begin to attack your child's gums. Even if your child is a bit fussy, make sure you finish feedings before you put your little one to sleep.

4. Use Clean Pacifiers

When consoling your child, make sure that you use a clean pacifier. If it falls to the ground, rinse it off with clean water—do not stick in their mouth, as that will transfer bacteria. If your child refuses the pacifier, leave it be and do not try to tempt your child by dipping it in sweet things like sugar or honey. Again, bacteria love sugar and dipping the pacifier in sweet things will only cause harm to your child's mouth.

5. Encourage Fluoride Use

Fluoride is important for your child's teeth, as it helps to prevent cavities from forming. If you do not live an area with fluorinated water, talk to your child's dentist about fluoride treatments. Even if there is fluoride in the water, make sure you are using a fluorinated toothpaste to brush your child's teeth and gums. Ask you dentist what toothpaste is best and at what age children should use it. 

Preventing the dreaded "baby bottle mouth" or tooth decay in children is easy. Simply follow these tips, practice good oral hygiene with your little one, and be sure to visit a dentist, such as those found at Village Family Dental, within your child's first year of life.

Share

Search