Summary about Disease
Bottle feeding tooth decay, also known as early childhood caries or nursing bottle caries, is a severe form of tooth decay that affects infants and young children. It is caused by prolonged exposure of teeth to sugary liquids, primarily from bottles or sippy cups, especially during naps or at night. This exposure allows bacteria in the mouth to produce acids that erode tooth enamel.
Symptoms
White spots on the upper front teeth near the gum line (early sign).
Brown or black spots on the teeth.
Cavities or holes in the teeth.
Cracked or broken teeth.
Pain or sensitivity when eating or drinking.
Irritability or fussiness, especially during feeding.
Swollen gums around the affected teeth.
Causes
Frequent and prolonged exposure of teeth to sugary liquids from bottles or sippy cups (milk, formula, juice, soda).
Giving a bottle as a pacifier, especially at night.
Bacteria in the mouth metabolizing sugars and producing acids.
Lack of proper oral hygiene (not cleaning the baby's gums or teeth).
Sharing saliva with the baby (e.g., sharing utensils, cleaning a pacifier in your mouth) can transmit cavity-causing bacteria.
Medicine Used
Fluoride Varnish: Applied by a dentist to strengthen enamel and slow down decay.
Topical Antibiotics: In some cases, dentists might use topical antibiotics to address specific bacterial infections contributing to the decay.
Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) may be recommended for discomfort.
Is Communicable
While tooth decay itself isn't directly communicable, the bacteria that cause it (primarily Streptococcus mutans) can be transmitted from person to person, often from caregiver to child through saliva.
Precautions
Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle containing milk, formula, or juice.
If a bottle is needed at bedtime, fill it with water.
Clean your baby's gums with a soft cloth or infant toothbrush after each feeding.
Brush your child's teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste as soon as they erupt.
Limit sugary drinks and snacks.
Encourage your child to drink from a cup as soon as they are able (around 1 year old).
Do not share utensils or clean pacifiers in your mouth.
Establish a dental home for your child by their first birthday.
How long does an outbreak last?
Bottle feeding tooth decay is not an outbreak that resolves on its own. It is a progressive condition that worsens over time if not treated. The decay will continue to advance as long as teeth are exposed to sugars and proper oral hygiene is not maintained.
How is it diagnosed?
Visual Examination: A dentist or dental hygienist will visually examine the child's teeth for signs of decay, such as white spots, brown spots, or cavities.
Dental History: The dentist will ask about the child's feeding habits, oral hygiene practices, and family history of tooth decay.
X-rays: X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of the decay and to check for decay between teeth.
Timeline of Symptoms
Early Stage: White spots appear on the upper front teeth, near the gumline. These spots are often difficult to see without proper lighting and a dental examination.
Progression: White spots turn yellow or light brown. The tooth surface may feel rough.
Moderate Decay: Brown spots become more prominent. Small cavities may form. The child may experience sensitivity to cold or sweet foods.
Severe Decay: Cavities become larger and darker. Teeth may become chipped or broken. The child may experience pain, swelling, and difficulty eating.
Important Considerations
Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent further damage and pain.
Treatment options range from fluoride applications to fillings, root canals, or extractions, depending on the severity of the decay.
Even if teeth are severely decayed and require extraction, maintaining good oral hygiene is important to prevent decay in remaining teeth.
Addressing the underlying causes of the decay (e.g., feeding habits, oral hygiene) is essential to prevent recurrence.
Bottle feeding tooth decay can have significant long-term consequences for a child's oral health, overall health, and self-esteem.