When your baby was born, you knew you wanted to breastfeed them. Although it took some getting used to, you two have found your rhythm and are making it work. Someday soon, you will feel a slightly sharp pinch, indicating that their first tooth is erupting. Before you come to this important stage in your baby’s development, you need to know certain oral health facts that will protect your infant’s smile.
Fact #1: You Don’t Have to Stop Breastfeeding When Teeth Come In.
Many nursing mothers think they should end breastfeeding when their baby’s teeth come in, but this isn’t true! In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends nursing for one year for the baby’s benefit. The truth is that you can breastfeed for as long as you and your little one determine is right for you. This bonding, nourishing experience doesn’t have to end simply because they have teeth!
Fact #2: Breastfeeding Decreases the Risk of Baby Bottle Tooth Decay.
When you fill your tummy with food, you can feel relaxed and ready to take a nap, and the same concept applies to babies. Unfortunately, some parents give their infants a bottle and then put them in the crib, using the feeding as a way to soothe them to sleep. But this method often leads to the milk or formula staying in their mouth and giving oral bacteria sugar to feed on. This results in a common condition called baby bottle tooth decay.
However, you should note that even if you exclusively breastfeed your baby, it doesn’t mean that they can’t still get a cavity. Breastmilk, while nutritious and natural, does contain some sugar. As a result, it can pose a threat to your little one’s primary teeth—if you are not brushing them every day. As long as you start this healthy habit as soon as their first tooth arrives and then bring them in for dental checkups and cleanings beginning at age one, their chances of getting a cavity will be much lower.
Fact #3: Mom and Dad’s Oral Health Helps Baby’s Oral Health.
After a baby arrives, the new parents adjust to meeting their constant needs, including late-night feedings and changing diapers. Add into the mix a lack of sleep, and you’ve got a recipe for low self-care. Normal hygiene can be forgotten; however, if you allow the bacteria in your mouth to flourish, it doesn’t take much to spread it to your little one, leading to an oral infection, so make sure you are still brushing and flossing twice a day as you did before the baby came.
In the end, when you understand more about your baby’s oral health (and your own), you can take measures to shield their mouth from potential harm. That way, as they go from gums to baby teeth to when their adult teeth come in, their smile can be strong and healthy.
About the Author
Dr. Bryce Cushing didn’t start his career as a pediatric dentist. In his practice, he enjoyed appointments with kids the most, which prompted him to go back to school. He completed his pediatric residency at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, one of the top schools in the country for this specialty. He has been practicing for more than 15 years now and loves seeing his patients grow from infancy through to adulthood. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bryce, you can reach out to his practice, Surf’s Up Pediatric Dentistry in Papillion online or by calling 402-773-7873.