Baby Oral Health

We now know that the germs that cause tooth decay are passed to babies by their mothers or caregivers. Therefore it is wise not to put your baby's items in your mouth.

Breastfeeding can help babies’ immune systems to respond to bacteria and infection since breast milk contains immunologic agents, or the mother's antibodies to disease. These antibodies are transferred to the infant and act against bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Anti-inflammatory agents in breast milk also help to regulate the body's immune system response against infection. In addition, a breastfed baby's digestive tract contains large amounts of Lactobacillus bifidus, beneficial bacteria that prevent the growth of harmful organisms.

Wiping the baby’s gum ridges with a soft cloth or a baby’s toothbrush after each nursing and feeding is important. This removes sugars found in the milk that can cause tooth decay. Bottle-feeding should end by age one and you should never put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice. Sucking on a bottle when lying down can severely destroy the baby’s teeth causing years of tooth pain and difficulty eating.

Pediatricians and pediatric dentists recommend that all babies have an oral examination by their first birthday. This is to screen for abnormal conditions and damaging feeding practices, and to educate caregivers on proper care of the teeth and mouth.