Is A toddlers toothless grin charming?
Not always. Nursing caries in baby’s first teeth occurs when babies habitually fall asleep sucking on a bottle. The sugar in whatever they’re drinking (cow’s milk, juice, formula or sugary drinks) turns to acid, dissolving tooth enamel. Breast-fed babies are also susceptible if they constantly fall asleep with breast milk on their teeth. Early signs of nursing caries include white spots/tooth discoloration. If the process continues, rampant decay and discomfort to the child results. Children need their baby teeth to chew and to learn to speak properly. Fortunately, you can protect your baby from nursing caries. Don’t let your baby go to bed with a bottle unless it contains plain water. Never let your child use a bottle as a daytime pacifier because all-day sucking is as bad as nighttime nipping. Clean baby’s mouth and teeth after meals and breastfeeding. Finally, if you suspect your child has nursing caries, contact your dentist immediately.
