Early Childhood Cavities

Early Childhood Cavities

Babies at risk for early childhood cavities are:

1. Babies who fall asleep with a bottle of any liquid which contains sugar e.g.. milk formula, fruit juice, pop etc.

2. Babies who nurse all night or beyond the age of 2-3 years.

3. Babies who are given a bottle to pacify them for prolonged periods of time.

Early childhood cavities can be prevented by:

1. Always holding your baby while feeding. Never put your baby to bed with a bottle.

2. Beginning to clean your baby's teeth as soon as they appear in the mouth. A clean washcloth works well until 4-6 teeth have come in.

3. Teaching your children healthy ways to settle to sleep. Consider using a soft blanket or cuddly toy, using a mobile or music box, using a clean pacifier (never dip it in honey or corn syrup), or rocking the baby to sleep.

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