Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Essential Tips for Parents

What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

Baby bottle tooth decay occurs due to frequent, prolonged contact with sugary liquids like fruit juices, milk, formula, and other sweetened drinks. Even human breast milk can contribute. As sugars break down in the mouth, bacteria feed on them, producing acids that cause tooth decay.

Potential Consequences

If untreated, decayed teeth can lead to pain and discomfort. Your child might require baby root canals, crowns, or even extractions if the teeth become abscessed (infected). Damaged or missing baby teeth can't guide permanent teeth into their proper position, potentially causing future crowding or crooked adult teeth.

Tips for Prevention

• Avoid Sugary Bottles: To soothe your baby, use plain water or a pacifier instead of bottles filled with sugary liquids.

• Skip Sweeteners: Don’t coat your baby's pacifier in sugar or honey.

• Bedtime Bottles: Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of sugary liquids. Plain water is best.

• Rinse After Feeding: Give your child some water to drink after each feeding to help remove excess sugar and prevent bacteria buildup.

Contact Us Today

If you suspect your child has baby bottle tooth decay, contact one of our pediatric dentists at Children's Dental Land or schedule an appointment for a consultation today. We proudly serve families in and around Phoenix, AZ.