Baby bottle tooth decay

Baby bottle tooth decay is a common dental condition that affects infants and toddlers. It is also known as Early Childhood Caries (ECC) or Nursing Bottle Syndrome. This condition is characterized by severe decay in the teeth of infants or young children.

Causes

Baby bottle tooth decay is primarily caused by prolonged exposure of a child's teeth to liquids containing sugars. These liquids include milk, formula, fruit juice, and other sweetened drinks. The bacteria in the mouth thrive on this sugar and produce acids that attack the teeth.

Symptoms

The symptoms of baby bottle tooth decay may include:

• White spots on the teeth
• Early development of cavities
• Pain and swelling in severe cases
• Infection or abscess formation
• Difficulty in eating or drinking

Prevention

Prevention of baby bottle tooth decay involves several steps:

• Avoiding sugary drinks
• Wiping the baby's gums with a clean gauze pad after each feeding
• Beginning brushing when the first tooth appears
• Regular dental visits from the age of 1
• Providing a balanced diet for the child

Treatment

Treatment for baby bottle tooth decay depends on the severity of the decay. It may include:

• Removal of decayed teeth
• Placement of crowns on severely decayed teeth
• Use of antibiotics to treat abscesses
• Regular follow-up visits to monitor the condition

See Also

• Dental caries
• Pediatric dentistry
• Oral hygiene