By Dr. Wengler
Some parents wonder if it’s necessary to brush their baby’s teeth. Can babies even get cavities? The answer is yes, they can. Here’s why and how to prevent it.
Why Babies Can Get Cavities
Cavities are caused by bacteria in the mouth that feed on sugars and carbohydrates left behind after meals. If a baby has a lot of these bacteria, they can develop cavities.
Tips to Prevent Cavities in Babies
-Delay Bacteria Introduction: Babies are born without bacteria in their mouths. Try to delay the transfer of bacteria by avoiding activities that share saliva, such as sharing spoons, tasting their food, kissing on the lips or cleaning pacifiers with your mouth.
Avoid Nighttime Feeding With a Bottle: Don’t let your baby sleep with a bottle or stay latched onto the breast all night. Both formula and breast milk contain natural sugars, which can lead to cavities if teeth are exposed to them for long periods.
-Start Brushing Early: Begin brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as their first tooth appears. Aim to brush once a day, ideally after their evening bottle or breastfeeding session. Use a tiny smear of toothpaste to give your baby the protective benefits of fluoride.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure your baby has a cavity-free future!
Feel free to share this post to help other parents keep their babies’ teeth healthy! More questions? Call to schedule an appointment today at Pediatric Dentistry of San Antonio. Call 210-680-7841 today!