BABY BOTTLE TOOTH DECAY
What is Nursing Bottle Decay and how can it be prevented? – Recommendations by Dr. Manasi Shimpi, Pediatric Dentist in Delhi
Tooth decay in infants and due to prolonged exposure to sugary liquids is known as Baby Bottle Tooth Decay. Children between the ages of 12-18 months are most prone to this condition.
It is also known as Nursing Bottle Caries.
It is associated, most commonly, with the decay of the upper front teeth, but may also affect other teeth. It may start as the appearance of chalky white areas on front surfaces (labial) of the upper front teeth close to the gum line. If unchecked, these areas become brownish to blackish in colour over time.
WHY DOES BABY BOTTLE TOOTH DECAY OCCUR?
• Prolonged breast feeding.
• Breast feeding or Bottle feeding before sleeping.
• The flow of saliva decreases during sleep delaying the clearance of the fluids from the mouth.
• Pacifiers dipped in sweeteners or honey.
• Frequent snacking on sticky or sweet foods.
• Genetic causes
WHAT CAN BE DONE TO PREVENT BABY BOTTLE TOOTH DECAY?
• Hold your baby upright while feeding.
• The child should not be put to sleep by breast feeding or bottle feeding him.
• Wean off the child slowly by adding water to the milk, and gradually increase the amount of water until it substitutes the milk completely.
• After feeding, clean the child’s teeth using a sterile wet gauze/ washcloth or a finger brush.
• Prevent frequent snacking and introduce healthy foods.
• Lift the lip frequently to check for white to brown spots on your baby’s teeth.