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Early Childhood Cavities: Causes & Prevention

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Sometimes called Baby Bottle Tooth Decay, Early Childhood Cavities is a serious disease that can destroy your child's teeth – but it can be prevented.

What Causes Early Childhood Cavities?

  • Letting your baby fall asleep with a bottle. When your baby is asleep, the liquids that contain sugar stay around the teeth and can cause decay. Even breast milk and formula contain sugar.
  • Prolonged nursing with mother or allowing your baby to fall asleep while nursing.
  • Allowing your infant to walk around with a bottle.

Put your child to bed without a bottle ...

Your child can fall asleep without a bottle! Here are five tips to try:

  • Let your child take a "security" blanket, teddy bear, doll, or favorite toy to bed.
  • Quietly sing or play restful music.
  • Hold or rock your child.
  • Give your child a back rub to help him or her to relax.
  • Read or tell your child a story.

What are the Effects of Early Childhood Cavities?

  • Tooth loss
  • Ear and speech problems
  • Crooked permanent teeth
  • Severe pain
  • Poor self-image
  • Tooth decay

How can I prevent Early Childhood Cavities?

  • Get into the habit of putting your baby to bed without a bottle.
  • Never put the baby to bed with a bottle filled with formula, milk, juice, sugar water, or soda pop. If your baby must have a bottle to go to sleep, fill it with water.
  • Do not let your infant walk around with a bottle.
  • Start teaching your infant to use a cup between 6-12 months. Trade your baby's bottle for a training cup by age one.
  • Check with your doctor or dentist to make sure your child is getting enough fluoride each day.

Your child's healthy teeth and brilliant smile depend on you!

 

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This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.