Tooth decay for toddlers and young children is possible as soon as their first tooth grows in. This can also be referred to as Baby Bottle Tooth Decay. In some cases, infants and toddlers have had very severe decay which has required dental extractions or restorations. Fortunately, childhood tooth decay is completely preventable.
When your child’s first tooth appears, you should generally schedule a dentist appointment within 6 months to a year. Dental education is very important, no matter how young your child is. If they have teeth, proper oral, dental, and gum health is extremely necessary. This will prevent diseases and infections from occurring. The initial appointment is not only for your child, but it is very necessary for the parent to understand the importance of childhood dental health, too.
Nutrition, diet, and feeding all play a role in the health of your child’s teeth. Unlimited consumption of sugary liquids, beverages, or foods containing fermentable carbohydrates can contribute to early childhood tooth decay after the appearance of the first tooth. Your child’s intake of these kinds of foods need to be limited and monitored at all times.
Bottle feeding and breast feeding need to be restricted at certain times of the day, especially at night before bed. Their bottle feeding should be finished before they are in bed. The use of a cup after their first birthday is also encouraged by the American Dental Association. Training cups should be limited and not have frequent use.
One of the most important preventive measures for baby bottle tooth decay is proper oral hygiene at home. This includes cleaning the infant’s teeth after he or she has consumed foods, liquids, or medications. Your dentist will also give you advice on how to check your child’s teeth regularly at home to monitor their condition.
For more information on Early Childhood Tooth Decay, go to www.ada.org.
