When your baby is drinking the infant formula in a bottle, the sugar reacts with bacteria found in his mouth and teeth to decay. The good news is that it is entirely possible to avoid this.
What causes cavities due to the use of the bottle?
When a baby drinks a liquid that contains sugar, including infant formula and breast milk, the bacteria (plaque) in the mouth convert sugar into acid. This acid attacks tooth enamel. According to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), the acid may continue to attack the teeth for 20 minutes or more once the liquid consumed. If there is deterioration, decay and cavities are formed. If we do not, this may result in the loss of one or more teeth.
How do I prevent my baby to have cavities because of the bottle?
Cavities because of the bottle are not only caused by the presence of sugars, but also the period during which the sugars remain in the mouth.
Never give sweet water or soda to your baby.
Limit the amount of sugary beverages like fruit juice, you give your baby.
Do not sleep with your baby a bottle in the mouth.
Before the advent of the first baby teeth, clean the gums after feeding. To clean the gums, use a damp cloth (or other soft tissue) and gently wipe your baby's gums.
Once teeth begin to appear, brush them regularly.
If the water you give your baby does not contain fluoride, ask your pediatrician or pediatric dentist to determine if you need to add extra fluoride to drinking water that your baby.
Never give your baby a pacifier that has been dipped in something sweet.
Sevrez your baby's bottle from its first anniversary.
How can I tell if my child has tooth decay because of the bottle?
If you notice the duties of a dull white on his front teeth, consult your pediatrician or pediatric dentist. The white spots are the first signs of cavities. If the problem persists, the tasks become black and stretch as the tooth is destroyed. Plan to take your baby to a pediatric dentist to evaluate dental General after the age of 6 months but not later than its first anniversary.