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“One night, my 3-year-old asked me if she could sleep in my bed. I told her no. She said, “That’s not fair! Why does Daddy get to sleep in your bed?” READ MORE
Kids Health
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Tooth decay, commonly referred to as cavities, is a leading dental problem in children under age 3. As soon as the first tooth cuts through the gum, between 4-6 months of age, it is susceptible to decay. Some cavities are due to bottle-feeding, hence the term baby bottle tooth decay (BBTD). Any type of fluid in the bottle can cause this condition, including formula, breast milk, juice, milk, soda, or sugar water. The natural or added sugars in these liquids are digested by bacteria in the mouth, producing acid. The acid dissolves tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Sugar and bacteria can also build up on the teeth, compounding the problem. Prolonged or repeated exposure to these liquids keeps the teeth bathed in acid and promotes decay. BBTD is typically seen in children who are given a bottle to fall asleep with at bedtime. As the baby drops off to sleep and stops swallowing, the liquid pools in the mouth, preventing saliva from neutralizing the acid. The same is true of children who are nursed repeatedly overnight, or given a bottle to sip from all day. It is also seen in children who are given pacifiers dipped in honey or sweet liquids. Early decay is hard to see and may cause no symptoms. In time, brown spots typically appear on the upper front teeth, along the gum line. In advanced stages, the teeth are blackened and disfigured. Look out for spots on your child’s teeth, or pain while eating cold or hard foods. Be sure to take your child to the dentist if you suspect she has tooth decay. Unfortunately, cavities are not reversible. No medicine improves the condition and most cases require dental work. Depending on the extent of decay, the dentist may fill the cavities, or do other restorative work. In severe cases, the teeth involved may need to be removed. Although cavities are not life-threatening, they can affect a child’s physical and emotional development. Children need healthy teeth to chew food and to develop language skills and self-esteem. Poor teeth in early childhood can lead to problems with speech and eating. Furthermore, baby teeth hold the spot for the permanent teeth to grow in. If the baby teeth rot or fall out, surrounding teeth may migrate into the space, causing permanent teeth to grow in crooked. Cavities or fillings may draw attention to a child’s teeth, leading to embarrassment during a time that is formative to a child’s sense of self. The good news is that BBTD is entirely preventable and it is never too early to start. Even before your baby has teeth, wipe his gums with a clean damp cloth or gauze after every feeding. Once teeth first appear, begin brushing with plain water and a small soft toothbrush, and continue wiping and massaging his gums every day. Begin flossing around age 2, or once he has all his teeth. Avoid giving your baby a bottle between feedings. Never give your baby a bottle to fall asleep with, or a pacifier dipped in honey. Be sure to schedule your child for a routine dental appointment by age 1. Your child’s teeth start out strong and healthy. As a parent you can help keep them that way. Investing in good dental hygiene is a worthwhile endeavor bringing great rewards, not the least of which is seeing your child smile.m Dr. Richelle K. Marracino is a family practice physician at the UC Riverside Campus Health Center. Information: 951.827.3031. |
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