Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

November 20, 2013

Do not fall into the trap of thinking that just because infant teeth are temporary, they do not need to be well cared for. Infant teeth are just as susceptible to tooth decay as adult teeth. Tooth decay, when found in infants, is often called, “baby bottle tooth decay.” Baby bottle tooth decay can have debilitating effects, but it is easily preventable.

 

Causes

The most common cause for early childhood caries is from sweetened liquids clinging to the child’s teeth for too long. Giving your child any sweetened liquid; whether naturally sweetened or artificially sweetened, exposes their teeth to sugar and allows the bacteria in their mouth to produce acids. The longer the liquid is left in their mouth the more sugar there is for the bacteria to feed on.


One of the most common causes of infant caries is using a bottle at bed time; especially if it is filled with milk or juice. Saliva flow slows down at night time creating an environment for bacteria to do harm.


Effects

Allowing your child to consume sugary liquids without cleaning their teeth may result in cavities and enamel erosion. What may seem like a small cavity on the surface, has the potential of becoming a large cavity as the bacteria reaches the softer inner tooth structures.

If left untreated, early childhood caries can result in painful infections. Teeth that are greatly decayed may need to be removed. In extreme cases, an infection that reaches the pulp of your child’s tooth has the potential to harm their developing adult teeth as well.


Treatment

Baby bottle tooth decay is easily preventable. As soon as you see your child’s first tooth, begin an oral hygiene routine. For infants, use a soft, damp cloth to wipe their teeth morning and night. As they get older, introduce a toothbrush and show them how to brush their teeth.

DO NOT put your child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup containing milk, juice, or other sweetened beverages. If your child is accustomed to falling asleep while drinking, give them a bottle or sippy cup of water or a pacifier. You can help break this habit by gradually diluting their sweetened beverage with water over two to three weeks, after which switch to just water.


Limit your child’s drinking to milk and water. Steer clear of juices and soft drinks, as these are just empty calories that your child doesn’t need and sugar that can do more harm than good for your child.


Once your child is old enough to brush their own teeth and spit out their toothpaste; our Evanston dentists recommend using fluoride toothpaste to help prevent cavities. If your child is prone to cavities, we sometimes recommend prescription strength fluoride toothpaste.

No matter what age, oral health is important. Helping your children learn good oral hygiene is the first step in giving them a beautiful smile that will last them a lifetime. Make sure you start them on the path to good oral hygiene early in life.

The post Baby Bottle Tooth Decay appeared first on Stephens Dentistry.

June 24, 2025
Pregnancy is a time of excitement, anticipation, and transformation. As your body adapts to nurture new life, your needs evolve—including your dental care. At Stephens Dentistry, we’re passionate about supporting expectant mothers through every stage of this journey. Understanding the connection between oral health and pregnancy is not just important for your smile, but for the wellbeing of both you and your baby.  How Pregnancy Impacts Oral Health Pregnancy brings about a surge in hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, which can have a profound effect on your gums and teeth. Many women notice changes in their oral health during pregnancy, including increased sensitivity, swelling, or bleeding gums. These shifts aren't just uncomfortable—they can also signal conditions that need attention to safeguard your overall health. Pregnancy Gingivitis: What You Need to Know One of the most common dental issues during pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , up to 60–75% of pregnant women develop gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. This occurs because hormonal changes heighten the body’s response to the bacteria in dental plaque. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis—a more serious gum infection that can cause tooth loss and has been linked to health risks beyond the mouth. Oral Health and Birth Outcomes The importance of oral health during pregnancy goes beyond comfort and aesthetics. Research has shown a significant link between maternal gum disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. A systematic review published in the Journal of Dental Research found that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver prematurely or have babies with low birth weights. Although more research is ongoing, the potential connection means that taking care of your gums and teeth is an essential part of prenatal health. Why Dental Care Shouldn’t Wait Some expectant mothers worry about dental treatments during pregnancy. The good news is that routine dental care—including cleanings and necessary treatments—are not only safe but recommended during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists confirms that preventive dental work is important and can be performed safely, especially in the second trimester. Delaying care can allow small problems to become bigger ones, and untreated infections can pose a risk to both you and your baby. If you are planning to become pregnant, scheduling a dental checkup beforehand is an excellent way to get ahead of any issues. Practical Tips for Expectant Mothers Maintaining oral health during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy throughout your pregnancy: Brush and Floss Regularly: Aim to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps remove plaque and reduce your risk of gingivitis. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on nutritious foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which support both your oral and overall health. Manage Morning Sickness: If you experience vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash rather than brushing immediately afterward, as stomach acid can soften tooth enamel. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and can also help combat dry mouth, which is common in pregnancy. Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Let your dental team know you are pregnant so they can tailor your care. At Stephens Dentistry, we take extra precautions to ensure your comfort and safety during each visit. Learn more about our preventive dental services . Recognizing When to Call Your Dentist While mild gum sensitivity is common, it’s important to reach out to your dentist if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, or pain. These symptoms could indicate an infection that needs prompt attention. If you develop a dental emergency during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist—timely care is always the best choice for both you and your baby. Supporting Your Health at Stephens Dentistry At Stephens Dentistry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized dental care for every stage of life—including pregnancy. Our team stays up-to-date on the latest guidelines and safety protocols to ensure you receive the best care possible. For more information on how we support our patients during pregnancy, visit our dental care for families page. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and your smile should be a part of it. Prioritizing your oral health is a gift to yourself and your growing family. If you have questions or want to schedule your next dental visit, contact our office —we’re here to help you every step of the way.
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