Bottle and breastfeeding: How to prevent early tooth decay

Nursing caries, also known as early childhood caries, is a form of tooth decay that affects infants and toddlers. It is caused by the stagnation of milk on the surface of the teeth for prolonged periods, often due to bottle or breast feeding.
Causes and Development
Nursing caries typically manifests as white, chalky spots on the teeth, which later turn brown, often appearing around the neck of the tooth, near the gum line. This type of decay is commonly found on the outer surface of the teeth, under the lips. As the decay progresses, it can affect the deeper layers of the teeth, causing pain. In severe cases, it may result in the breakdown of the crown at the gum line, leaving only the roots behind.
Nursing caries primarily affects the upper teeth, rather than the lower teeth, due to the position of the tongue during feeding. When a child is put to sleep after feeding, milk stagnates on the tooth surface longer, as saliva flow is reduced during sleep, which increases the risk of tooth damage.

Prevention
To prevent early tooth decay, it is essential to clean the surfaces of the teeth after every feed. Cleaning can be done with a damp cloth or clean wipes. The gum pads should also be cleaned in a similar manner. Once a few teeth appear in the mouth, a finger brush can be used to clean the teeth surfaces.
As the child grows, a junior toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste can be used to maintain good oral hygiene.

Additional Recommendations:
Avoid adding sugar to milk during bottle feeding, as it increases the risk of early tooth decay.
Sweetened pacifiers should be avoided, as they can also contribute to tooth decay.
It is recommended to discontinue bottle feeding once the child is able to drink from a Sippy cup.
Bedtime feedings should always be followed by tooth cleaning before the child goes to sleep.
Parents should schedule regular evaluations with a pediatric dentist every six months to detect early signs of tooth decay and ensure proper oral health for their children.