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When
babies or children nurse or drink from a bottle, the milk, juice
or fluid they drink remains concentrated around the upper area.
Once children have their upper front teeth, these teeth can be at
risk of developing decay early due to the concentration of fluid
and especially if the drinks have a high sugar content.
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| The frequency
and type of drink is the most important factor. Juices are the worst
as they are acidic and high in sugars. Milk also contains natural
sugars, and although it can also promote decay, it is much less a
factor. When we go to sleep, we produce less saliva, which normally
protects teeth and washes away any sugars. A bottle just before bedtime
will cause decay much more than a bottle given during the day. |
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| Frequency: when
we eat or drink, the sugars in foods combine with plaque bacteria
and cause the mouth to become acidic. This allows for the progression
of tooth decay. After an average of one to three hours, saliva will
neutralize the acidity and wash away any remaining food. At this time
the mouth becomes neutral or basic (the opposite of acidic) and the
enamel can be repaired and decay process stopped. If the mouth remains
acidic during the greater period of the day, then decay will result. |
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| How can it
be prevented? |
| Most problems
are seen in children that frequently drink juice from a bottle during
the day and/or drink juice from a bottle just before bedtime. |
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| Some simple
steps to prevention: |
- Wipe baby
teeth with a soft cloth or toothbrush as soon as the teeth are
erupted
- Limit the
frequency of juices given by a bottle during the day, especially
as the children grow older. Dilute juices with water.
- Do not give
juice in a bottle at bedtime. If you do, try to substitute with
water or give afterwards to wash away the excess sugars.
- Check your
child's front teeth regularly and call our office if you see any
dark brown or black spots that do not wipe off.
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©
2001 - 2010 Dr. Peter A Balogh Inc. All rights reserved.
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