Formula feeding and tooth decay

Tooth decay in infants and very young children is often referred to as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing bottle caries or early childhood caries

Generally it is caused when a child goes to bed with a bottle filled with milk or juice 

(anything but water), or pacifiers dipped in sugar or any other sweetened products. Bacteria present in the mouth change the sugar to acids that attack the teeth causing tooth decay.

Most common symptoms are- 

White spots on the teeth

Early development of cavities (brown/black)

Visible tooth decay particularly the front upper and lower teeth

Tooth pain

Infections

Early loss of teeth

Many people think baby teeth are temporary hence not important.

But baby teeth are necessary for chewing, speaking and smiling. Above all these they serve as placeholders for the adult teeth. If baby tooth decay is left untreated, pain and infection can result or child may develop poor eating habits, speech problems, crooked teeth and damage adult teeth.

EARLY PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE-

Wipe the baby’s gums with a clean cloth after each feed.

Begin brushing child’s teeth with the appearance of 1st tooth.

Brush teeth using a fluoride free toothpaste (make sure child is getting sufficient fluoride)

Clean and massage gums in areas without teeth.

Begin early dental visits for your child.

Do not allow the child to go to bed with a bottle filled with anything but water.

Healing ray dental clinic provides various treatment modalities like early detection of caries, fluoride and pit and fissure sealants application, tooth brushing techniques, oral health education and child behaviour management.

“Child health is our priority…’’