Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

        One serious form of decay among young children is baby bottle tooth decay. This condition is caused by frequent and long exposures of an infant’s teeth to liquids that contain sugar. Among these liquids are milk (including breast milk), formula, fruit juice and other sweetened drinks.
Putting a baby to bed for a nap or at night with a bottle filled with a liquid other than water can cause serious and rapid tooth decay. Sweet liquid pools around the child’s teeth giving plaque bacteria an opportunity to produce acids that attack tooth enamel. If you must give the baby a bottle as a comforter at bedtime, it should contain only water. If your child won’t fall asleep without the bottle and its usual beverage, gradually dilute the bottle’s contents with water over a period of two to three weeks.
After each feeding, wipe the baby’s gums and teeth with a damp washcloth or gauze pad to remove plaque. The easiest way to do this is to sit down, place the child’s head in your lap or lay the child on a dressing table or the floor. Whatever position you use, be sure you can see into the child’s mouth easily.
 Sippy Cups  
        Sippy cups should be used as a training tool from the bottle to a cup and should be discontinued by the first birthday.  If your child uses a sippy cup throughout the day,  fill the sippy cup with water only (except at mealtimes).  By filling the sippy cup with liquids that contain sugar (including milk, fruit juice, sports drinks, etc.) and allowing a child to drink from it throughout the day, it soaks the child’s teeth in cavity causing bacteria.
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How Often Should I Bring My Child To See Dr. Oliver?

           The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. Some children need more frequent dental visits because of increased risk of tooth decay or poor oral hygiene. Dr. Oliver will let you know the best appointment schedule for your child.
           Regular dental visits help your child stay cavity-free. Teeth cleanings remove debris that build up on the teeth, irritate the gums and cause decay. Fluoride treatments renew the fluoride content in the enamel, strengthening teeth and preventing cavities. Hygiene instructions improve your child’s brushing and flossing, leading to cleaner teeth and healthier gums.
           Tooth decay is not the only reason for a dental visit.  Dr. Oliver provides an ongoing assessment of changes in your child’s oral health. For example, your child may need additional fluoride, dietary changes or sealants for ideal dental health.  Dr. Oliver may identify orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth.
          Dr.Oliver will review your child’s medical and dental history. He will gently examine your child’s teeth, oral tissues and jaws. The teeth will be cleaned and polished, followed by the application of a fluoride solution and if needed we will take dental radiographs to help diagnose or prevent future treatment.
          Dr. Oliver and staff will not just talk to you about dental health, they will talk to your child with easily understandable words, pictures and ideas. Your child will be motivated to take responsibility for a healthy smile.

           Here are some steps that will help your child be part of the cavity-free generation:
1. Beware of frequent snacking
2. Brush effectively twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
3. Floss once a day, before bed is best.
4. Have sealants applied when appropriate
5. Come to your regular dental check-ups with Dr. Oliver
6. Assure proper fluoride through drinking water, fluoride products or fluoride supplements