Our Concord Pediatric Dentist Explains What Causes Tooth Decay in Baby Teeth

You would do anything to protect your baby. You see your pediatrician regularly. You make sure your little one has a healthy diet, plenty of interaction with you, and a safe environment. The last thing you want to see is tooth decay in your infant’s baby teeth. It’s a common problem for many children, no matter how vigilant their parents are. Our local children’s dentist explains how tooth decay happens for babies.

Your Concord Pediatric Dentist Understands Tooth Decay in Baby Teeth
When you visit a kids dentist near me, don’t be surprised if you hear about the risks of tooth decay for your infant. You should come in to see your local children’s dentist once the first tooth has appeared. You want to start your baby off on the right track with a good oral health routine. Your baby’s teeth are not as strong as adult teeth. They are still developing. The outer layer, known as enamel, is softer and thinner than adult teeth. This makes baby teeth more susceptible to decay.

The Baby Bottle is Often to Blame for Tooth Decay in Baby Teeth
Your Concord pediatric dentist will evaluate your infant’s teeth on your first visit. There is unlikely to be any decay at such an early stage. However, your kids dentist near me will be able to give you helpful information to prevent decay. In most cases, baby bottle tooth decay is the culprit. Even if you avoid juice or anything high in sugar, there are natural sugars in formula and milk. When your baby drinks from a bottle, the milk or formula can settle on your little one’s teeth and lead to decay.

You Can Avoid Tooth Decay in Your Infant’s Baby Teeth
Don’t panic about feeding your baby with a bottle. Take preventative steps to make sure your little one develops healthy teeth. When your baby is done feeding, don’t leave the bottle or your nipple in your child’s mouth. You should not allow your baby to sleep with a bottle in his or her mouth. When your child is about six months old, switch to a sippy cup. At a year, it will be time for a regular cup. Milk and water are the best beverages once your child is off formula. You can also clean your baby’s teeth after feeding with a soft toothbrush or cloth dipped in water.

Talk to Your Pediatric Dentist to Keep Your Baby’s Teeth Healthy
Make an appointment with our local children’s dentist to help your baby have healthy gums and teeth. Regular examinations and helpful tips from our dentist will promote good oral health for your infant.