BOTTLES CAN CAUSE DECAY
Baby bottle tooth decay is a condition
that can destroy the teeth of an infant or
young child. It is the result of teeth being
exposed to liquids containing sugars.
Sugars are used by bacteria in the mouth
as an energy source. In the process, the
bacteria produce acids which lead to
cavities.
Many sweet liquids cause these
problems, including milk, formula and
fruit juice. And it’s not just what is in a
child’s bottle that causes decay, but how
often and how long. Giving a child a
bottle of sweet liquid many times a day is
not a good thing. Allowing the child to
fall asleep with a bottle during naps or at
night can also harm the child’s teeth.
Children need water. Get them on the
habit of drinking it often.
If your local water supply does not
contain fluoride, ask your dentist how your child should get it.
To help keep baby bottle tooth decay from affecting your child, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) encourages parents and other caregivers to follow these tips:
- After each feeding, wipe the baby’s gums with a clean, damp washcloth or gauze pad.
- Begin brushing the child’s teeth when the first tooth appears.
- Clean and massage gums in areas without teeth.
- Never allow your child to fall asleep with a t bottle containing milk, formula, fruit juice, or sweet liquids.
- If your child needs a comforter between feedings at night or during naps, give him a bottle with cool water or a clean pacifier recommended by your dentist or physician.
- Never give your child a pacifier dipped in anything sweet and always avoid filling bottles with sugar water or pop.
- Begin flossing when all of the baby teeth have come in.
- Visit the dentist by the child’s first birthday. If you think your child has dental problems, go to the dentist immediately.
PARENT ACTIVITY: Find a dentist through MOM & ME program by calling 248-1305 or 1-800-964-9889
