How to Prevent Baby-Bottle Mouth

Believe it or not, tooth decay occurs even in infants and toddlers, with the biggest culprit being baby-bottle tooth decay, according to HealthyChildren.org. This syndrome happens when your baby's teeth are exposed to formula, milk or fruit juice that clings to them for extended periods of time after being fed a bottle. Your baby's mouth has bacteria inside that thrives on the sugars in these drinks, which then create acids that attack the teeth. You may not think this is a big deal, since it's just baby teeth, but this tooth decay can cause serious, long-term health problems for your little one, notes the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Foundation.

Instructions

    • 1

      Wipe your baby's gums gently with a clean washcloth after each feeding if she doesn't have any teeth yet. Once her first teeth start to show, you can start using a baby toothbrush and a bit of water to gently brush her teeth.

    • 2

      Brush your baby's teeth two times a day at minimum after he reaches 12 months. Ask your pediatrician or dentist if you should begin using a fluoride toothpaste, recommends HealthyChildren.org. It's best to brush after breakfast and before you put your baby to bed each night.

    • 3

      Give your baby her bottle when it's her feeding time and avoid using a bottle as a way to pacify her.

    • 4

      Prevent further tooth decay by never putting your baby to bed with a bottle filled with formula, breast milk or anything other than water. This applies to nap time and nighttime.

    • 5

      Limit the amount of juice your baby drinks from a bottle to 4 to 6 ounces per day and wait until he's at least 6 months old to introduce him to juice. Only give him juice with his meals.

    • 6

      Switch your baby from a bottle to a cup when she reaches 1 year old, advises HealthyChildren.org. This will lessen the amount of sugary liquid that sits on her teeth.

    • 7

      Take your baby for a dental visit after his first tooth comes in or by his first birthday at the latest, advises the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Your baby's dentist can check for any dental problems and teach you about how to properly care for his teeth at home.

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