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As important as it is to prevent tooth decay in our own smiles, it’s also important to prevent tooth decay in our children’s smiles as well.

Baby bottle tooth decay is a common and unfortunate condition that is generally found in the smiles of children who frequently drink sugary drinks from a bottle. As they drink, the sugars attack their smile and create cavities in the front teeth. If you are one who believes baby teeth are unimportant and unnecessary, it’s time to think otherwise. Your child’s baby teeth are extremely important and necessary for a strong, healthy, and beautiful smile now and in the future, which is why it is very important to prevent baby bottle tooth decay by doing the following things:

• Don’t send your child to sleep with a bottle full of a sugary drink. If you do, the sugar will feed the bacteria in your child’s mouth and will attack your child’s teeth as they sleep.

• It is best to give your child milk, formula, and water throughout the day instead of juice. However, juice is OK in moderation.

• Clean your child’s smile as much as possible, especially after each feeding and after they drink juice. You can clean their mouth by wiping their gums with a damp washcloth.

• After your child’s teeth grow in, help them brush their teeth at least two times a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

• Start encouraging your child to drink through a cup by their first birthday.

• Don’t dip your child’s pacifier in sugar or honey before giving it to them.

If your child does indeed suffer from baby bottle tooth decay, please bring them into our office as soon as possible. We are here to help your child in any way we can.