Upper front teeth are affected most. The problem is usually caused by the infant falling asleep while having a bottle or while being breast fed.
While the child is asleep, the bacteria living in every baby’s mouth turns the sugars to acid which causes decay.
Common sources of liquids high in sugars are:
A bottle containing special baby milk or fruit juice.
A pacifier dipped in honey or sugar.
Breast milk
How can you help prevent your childrens teeth?
Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Being aware of the practices that cause baby bottle tooth decay is the first step in preventing it. Proper dental hygiene and bottle-feeding habits will help keep your child’s baby teeth healthy and strong until the permanent teeth come in.
Steps to avoid early childhood caries include:
Limit consumption of sweetened beverages and juices: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends 6 ounces of juice only per day and no juice before 6 months of age. If your child is accustomed to drinking juices, gradually dilute the beverage by adding water incrementally over 2-3 weeks until only water is given between feedings.
Never put your child to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice: If your child does need a bottle at bedtime, fill it with water; however, some pediatricians advise against any bottles in the crib unless the child is able to sit up.
Limit snacks containing sugar: Starting healthy eating habits early will help ensure good long-term dental health.
Adhere to specific feeding times: Do not let your child carry a bottle or sippy cup containing sweetened beverages (milk, formula, juice, soda) for extended periods of time, as this allows the teeth to be exposed to sugar virtually all day.
Use a clean spoon to share food with your child: Sharing utensils can transmit bacteria from one person to another.
Begin cup training around 6 months of age: The American Dental Association (ADA) advises weaning off the bottle by 12 months and early training helps with a smooth transition.
Do not place honey, sugar, or syrup on your child’s pacifier: Honey can be harmful to babies under 1, and placing sweeteners on a pacifier coats the teeth with sugar. Keep pacifiers clean to avoid residual bacteria that may linger after use.
Wipe your child’s gums after feedings: A clean, damp cloth should be used to remove debris.
Instill good dental hygiene early: Brush your child’s teeth with a soft toothbrush at least twice per day upon the eruption of the first tooth. Continue to help with brushing until your child can thoroughly clean his/her teeth without help (typically about age 6). Your dentist can advise you on choosing a toothpaste for your child and dental hygiene for children.
Schedule regular dental check-ups for your child: Twice a year is recommended once the teeth begin to erupt.