Baby-bottle tooth decay is caused by bacterial infection. Bacteria multiply in the mouth if exposed longer time to sugars resulting from breaking down of carbohydrates in liquids, such as milk and fruit juice. The bacteria, while feeding on the sugar, produce an acid that de-mineralizes and causes tooth decay. If not prevented, the problem could become serious.
Putting kids to bed with liquid filled bottles can cause tooth decay. Use only plain water if you intent to keep the bottle in the kid’s mouth for longer time. Dipping the pacifier in sugar or sugary liquids, and adding sugar to food is also harmful. Teach the kids to drink from a cup after age one and clean the teeth gums after each feeding. Regular visits to the dentist after the first tooth are also helpful.
Right amount of fluoride in the body is also necessary to prevent tooth decay. If the fluoride content in the drinking water is insufficient, consult your doctor for a supplement. Give plenty of healthy snack foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, sugar free items and cheeses which are good for teeth. Sugary and starchy foods are better eaten as part of a meal instead as snacks. These will be washed away when the kids drink water or other fluids during mealtime which saliva alone cannot do.
Sticky food particles remain longer in the mouth and groves and are difficult to remove by water alone. These food particles are likely to cause cavities. Avoid sticky foods, such as creamy sandwich cookies, jelly beans and so on. Rinse the mouth with water several times or brush the teeth immediately after eating. Also, reduce the frequency of snacks to decrease the level of acidity in the mouth. If your child is fond of gums, make sure these are sugar free.
Posted on May 24th, 2008 by admin
Filed under: Baby, Child Care, Dental care, Diet, Toddler
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