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Baby
Bottle Tooth Decay or Baby Bottle Syndrome is the
rapid decay of baby teeth in an infant or child from frequent
exposure, for long periods of time, to liquids containing
sugars. The upper front teeth are most commonly affected.
The
problem is usually caused by a baby falling asleep while nursing
a bottle or while breast feeding. While the child is asleep,
the sugary liquid pools around the front teeth. The bacteria
living in every baby’s mouth then turns the sugars to
acid which causes decay.
Common
sources of liquids high in sugars are:
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- A bottle
containing formula, milk, soda, or juice
- A pacifier
dipped in honey
- Breast milk
You can help
prevent Baby Bottle Syndrome by:
- Cleaning
your child’s teeth daily
- Not allowing
your child to fall asleep with a bottle filled with juice,
milk, or formula
- Not allowing
your child to sip on a bottle filled with juice, milk,
or formula for long periods of time as a pacifier
- Giving your
child plain water when he or she is thirsty
- Making sure
your child gets the fluoride needed to prevent decay
- Making regular
dental appointments for your child beginning when their first
tooth erupts
Drs. Stoker or Dr.
Adams
can provide you with more information which can improve the care
of your child’s teeth and maximize their oral health.
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