Do you have a new baby in the family? Take a minute to learn about baby bottle tooth decay and how to prevent it!

Just as soon as being a baby's first teeth appear, they can be prone to cavities. It is imperative you, as your child's guardian, focus on your baby's young teeth in the beginning. A good way to get started is to learn a small amount about Baby Bottle Tooth Decay. Now let's take a quick look at Baby Bootle Tooth Decay and how to prevent it!

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay, also called Early Childhood Caries, is a term used when talking about any decay found in a little childs teeth. while all teeth are susceptible, the upper set with front teeth are the most susceptible to this condition. Dental studies have shown that early decay is caused by a specific bacteria called Streptococcus Mutans. It is important to note that Baby Bottle Tooth Decay can developed into a more serious dental problem down the road, if left untreated. In addition, this is like any all form of decay so it will definitely cause your little one pain and discomfort. It is also common to cause poor eating habits, lower body weights and irritability.

Though it is a serious condition, Baby Bottle Tooth Decay actually is completely avoidable. One of the main factors behind this condition is the consumption of sugar which is frequently obtained in baby formulas, juices, etc. It is the sugar that encourages the excessive growth of this bacteria, Streptococcus Mutans. As your baby's care giver, you must try to avoid feeding your infant foods which are loaded with sugar. And, it is usually best to clean the gums and teeth in your baby's mouth after each feeding using a clean wet wash rag. Also, giving your baby several sips of water just after feeding helps to clean out any remaining formula or food. Next, it is also recommend to use a little toddler's toothbrush, and the toothpaste recommended by your Dentist, to brush your baby's little teeth. You should do this at least twice per day. Lastly, it is not recommended to let your child sleep with any sort of feeding bottle. Your baby creates decreased amounts of saliva when shw is asleep. This means the milk or whatever your baby drinks during the night will stay in the mouth longer. Give your baby a bottle at night is very bad for your baby. It is a major cause for developing early tooth decay, so just don't do it!

Though Baby Bottle Dental Decay is pretty common these days, it is definitely not inevitable. With proper home-based dental care and regular consultation with all your local Dentist, good oral and dental health for your child will be easy for you to achieve.

For more information, contact your local Dentist.