Establishing healthy habits and routines from an early age can significantly impact a child's dental health. It is crucial for parents to be aware of how cavities can form even before a child reaches their first birthday. Several factors contribute to this early development of cavities, primarily focusing on the liquids infants consume and the how often they are exposed to those liquids.
Whenever it’s possible for mom, breast milk is the healthiest option for infants. It is essential to create regular nursing times and ensure that the child's mouth and teeth are cleaned afterward to promote good oral health. Even before a child has teeth, routine cleaning of the gums and tongue with a wet rage can help a child get used to daily oral hygiene. Parents should note that other liquids, such as infant formula, milk, and juice, can lead to cavities, especially when infants consume these liquids frequently throughout the day or during bedtime.
Many parents may be unaware that both infant formula and milk can contribute to cavity formation, even though they are considered beneficial for young children. While these liquids provide necessary nutrients, they also contain carbohydrates and sugars, which are key contributors to tooth decay. To help lower this risk, it is advisable to limit the consumption of these liquids to specific times. It is particularly important to avoid allowing an infant to drink from a bottle once they have fallen asleep to prevent prolonged exposure to sugary liquids throughout the night.
Cleaning any teeth that have come into contact with infant formula or milk before the child sleeps is also vital. Teeth that remain coated with these liquids overnight are more likely to get cavities. For infants who have only their front teeth, using a wet washcloth or rag can effectively remove residual formula or milk, which helps a child’s oral health. While it might be preferable to offer these liquids earlier in the evening, wiping the child's teeth after they fall asleep can still greatly reduce the risk of cavities.
Juice is another area of concern. Many parents believe that juice offers health benefits for young children; however, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises against giving juice to children under one year of age unless it is medically necessary. Moreover, consuming whole fruit is far more beneficial than drinking fruit juice. Due to the increased risk of cavities, both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend that if juice is provided to toddlers, it should be served in a cup rather than a bottle or no-spill cup to limit its accessibility throughout the day.
To address the risk of cavities early on, it is recommended that children have their first dental visit when their first tooth appears or no later than a child’s first birthday. During this visit, a dentist can assess any early signs of cavities and provide guidance on maintaining oral health. Discussions may include restricting milk and juice to designated times and, following the recommendations of the American Dental Association, using a smear of fluoridated toothpaste during toothbrushing. These measures can help set the foundation for lifelong healthy dental habits.
Dr. J.R. Franco, a certified pediatric dentist at the Dental Health Center at International Circle, is committed to collaborating closely with patients to address their concerns and ensure they receive optimal support.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit Peak Vista services at peakvista.org or call 719-475-0783.
