Baby bottle syndrome is a condition that occurs when children are given a bottle as a sleep aid and tooth decay commences as a result of the pooling of liquid in the child’s mouth. Luckily, there are many ways in which this condition can be prevented so your child will have a higher likelihood having a healthy smile as they grow.
Our dentist, Dr. Sophie Baird, understands the vital role preventative measures play in your child’s oral health. It is our mission at Pima Pediatric Dentistry in Tucson, Arizona, to make our patients aware of the ways they can prevent tooth decay for themselves and their children.
There are a variety of ways that baby bottle syndrome can be prevented. They include:
– Always assist your child when they brush their teeth until you can be confident that they are not only brushing properly, but that they are not swallowing toothpaste.
– Ensure that when you give your child a pacifier that it is clean, and you should avoid dipping it in sugar or syrup to get them to take it.
– Teach your child about the importance of brushing your teeth at an early age. Ideally this would start when their first tooth comes in.
– Avoid sending your child to bed with a bottle. Allow the child to finish their bottle before brushing their teeth, and then put them to bed.
– Wiping down your child’s teeth with a wet gauze pad after every meal.
In addition to the important tips listed above, it is important to schedule your child’s first dental appointment around their first birthday. If you have any questions about your child’s oral hygiene call at 520-748-7073 to schedule an appointment with a member of our capable team.