Tooth decay is the most prevalent dental problem globally affecting millions of people irrespective of age and gender. However, infants and babies may be more prone to baby bottle tooth decay which commonly occurs due to contact with excess sugar. 

The orthodontist in Fullerton, CA, and their team of pediatric dentists offer a variety of procedures that can help treat baby bottle tooth decay. Read on to learn the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of baby bottle tooth decay. 

A comprehensive guide to baby bottle tooth decay

Baby bottle tooth decay, also known as infant caries, early childhood caries, and nursing bottle caries, is an aggressive form of tooth decay affecting mostly infants, and toddlers. It usually occurs in the front teeth, or incisors. 

Causes

Baby bottle tooth decay occurs when the teeth of infants are exposed to excessive sugar, promoting bacterial growth in the mouth. These bacteria metabolize sugar, generating acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to decay. Babies who breastfeed or bottle-feed to sleep, especially with milk or sugary liquids, are at increased risk of developing this condition known as nursing bottle caries.

Symptoms 

You can expect the following signs and symptoms in baby bottle tooth decay:

• White spots, especially on the upper front teeth (maxillary incisors)
• Pain and discomfort
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Prominent deep cavities 
• Tooth discoloration (dark brown or black)
• Swelling around the affected teeth
• Bad breath 
• Extreme irritability 
• Tooth erosion 
• Tooth loss 

Treatment 

Baby bottle tooth decay can be reversed and effectively treated through the following:

• Fluoride treatment
• Dental sealants 
• Dental fillings such as amalgam or GIC
• Pulptomy (removal of coronal pulp) or pulpectomy (removal of radicular pulp) with a stainless steel crown
• Extraction for severe cases with space maintainers until permanent teeth erupt

Prevention 

It is possible to prevent infant or baby bottle tooth decay through the following preventive measures:

• Don’t put your baby to sleep with a milk bottle
• Avoid giving them excess fruit juices or sugary items like candy or lollipop
• Clean their gums with a wet gauze after every feed
• Brush their teeth once they erupt, twice daily 
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and low-dose fluoride toothpaste to brush their teeth
• Transition to a sippy cup as soon as possible
• Encourage healthy eating habits in them
• Hydrate them well to increase saliva production to flush out the toxins 
• Take your baby to the dentist once in six months for checkups 

Conclusion 

Tooth decay is prevalent in infants and young children, often due to inadequate oral hygiene practices and unhealthy dietary choices. It’s crucial to minimize sugar consumption, promote nutritious foods, ensure proper hydration, and encourage regular brushing to prevent or address baby bottle tooth decay.