Baby Bottle Syndrome

Baby Bottle Syndrome or Early Childhood Caries is the rapid decay of baby teeth in an infant or child due to frequent exposure to liquids containing sugars over a certain period of time.

Upper tooth decay

Upper front teeth are affected most. The problem is usually caused by the infant falling asleep while having a bottle or while being breast fed.

While the child is asleep, the bacteria living in every baby’s mouth turns the sugars to acid which causes decay.

Common sources

Common sources of liquids high in sugars are:

• A bottle containing special baby milk or fruit juice.
• A pacifier dipped in honey or sugar.
• Breast milk

Prevention

How can you help prevent your childrens teeth?

• Cleaning your child’s teeth daily, especially in the evenings before going to bed.
• Not allowing your child to fall asleep with a bottle filled with juice or milk.
• Giving your child plain water when it is thirsty.
• Making regular dental appointments for your child beginning with the first teeth being visible.