Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
This single condition may cause more pain and suffering in small children than all other conditions combined. It is a dental problem that can destroy the teeth of an infant or young child.

This type of tooth decay occurs when a child’s teeth are exposed to sugary liquids for long periods of time. For example, when putting a baby to bed with a bottle, the teeth will have liquid on them overnight. Sugary liquids from the bottle will cause the teeth to decay. Examples of sugary liquids are milk, formula, soda pop, fruit juice and most other sweetened liquids.

The Tooth Decay Process
Teeth are covered with a sticky film called plaque. The bacteria in plaque use sugar to multiply and provide a constant supply of acid to damaged teeth. During sleep, saliva decreases, allowing sugary liquids to pool around teeth for a longer period of time. The sugar stays in the mouth, allows acid to attack longer, and causes more damage and destruction to the teeth.

 

Effects of Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
 

Although, the upper front teeth usually are the first to be affected, all of the first set of teeth, commonly called “baby” or “primary” teeth, can be damaged. This can cause:

·         Permanent teeth development problems (crooked permanent teeth)

·         Cavities

·         Difficulty eating

·         Delayed speech development

·         Ear problems

·         Staining (brown/dark spots)

·         Poor eating habits

·         Social problems (self-esteem)

·         Pain

·         Gingivitis

·         Bone structure damage (periodontal disease)

·         General health problems