That black spot you can see on your baby’s tooth is indeed a cavity. But do not worry; the reversal of early childhood tooth decay in your toddler (also known as baby bottle tooth decay) is possible.
The entire process involves removing the decayed part of the tooth, filling the cavity, and providing good oral hygiene and a balanced diet for the child.
What is baby bottle tooth decay?
Baby bottle tooth decay is a type of tooth decay that occurs in infants and young children, usually when they go to bed with a bottle of milk, juice, or other sugary liquids.
When the liquid stays in contact with their teeth for a long time, the sugars in the liquid ferment, producing acid that attacks the enamel (the protective outer layer) of the teeth. Over time, this acid can cause cavities, or holes, in the teeth.
It’s important to note that baby bottle tooth decay can happen to any baby or young child who goes to bed with a bottle containing anything other than water, regardless of how long they suck on the bottle. The longer the liquid stays in contact with their teeth, the greater the risk of decay.
To prevent baby bottle tooth decay, it’s important to not let babies or young children go to bed before cleaning their teeth thoroughly after they finish their bedtime bottle or any other sugary drink.
Regular dental check-ups are also important, especially for children who are prone to cavities. By taking these simple steps, you can help protect your child’s teeth and promote healthy dental development.
Causes Of Tooth Decay In Toddlers
Several factors can cause tooth decay in babies. Here are the top five causes:
Poor oral hygiene: Just like adults, it’s important for babies to have good oral hygiene. Neglecting to clean their teeth and gums can lead to plaque buildup, which can cause tooth decay.
Sugary foods and drinks: Sugar is one of the main causes of cavities in teeth. When babies consume sugary foods and drinks, the sugar interacts with bacteria in their mouths, creating acid that attacks their teeth’ enamel.
Bottle feeding: If a baby goes to bed with a bottle containing anything other than water, it can lead to tooth decay. Milk, formula, and juice all have sugar. They sit on your baby’s teeth for long periods, rotting the enamel.
Medications: Some medications, such as antibiotics, can affect your child’s oral health by reducing the number of healthy bacteria in their mouth. This can increase their risk of tooth decay.
Genetics: Tooth decay can also be caused by genetics. Some babies are born with a higher risk of developing cavities, so it’s important to be extra diligent with their oral hygiene to help prevent caries and other issues.
Final Words
Tooth decay reversal in your toddler’s teeth is possible in some cases. The best way is to keep their oral health in check along with a daily hygiene regime of proper brushing. If you want to know more, contact Sair Dental Group right away. We are located at 8410 Fondren Road, Houston, TX 77074; give us a call at (832) 924-2666 and 10345 Club Creek Dr, Houston, TX 77036. Dial (281) 558-1199 to get in touch with us here.