Nursing Your Child? Here Are 5 Dental Facts You Should Know

Breastfeeding your child has several benefits, but did you know it can also affect their oral health? With all the other care you have to think about for your little one, it can be easy to forget about their teeth. Since dental conditions can impact overall wellbeing, it’s crucial to be well-informed.

Don’t worry, we know you’re busy. In this article, we narrow the important stuff down to five facts, so you don’t have to spend hours researching.

#1. Better Dental Alignment

The way your child’s teeth come in depends on several factors, including everything from genetics to habits like thumb-sucking. Still, research shows that infants who are consistently breastfed for six months are less likely to develop dental alignment issues like overbites and crossbites. It’s good to know that breastfeeding could help prevent your little one from needing major orthodontic treatment!

#2. Reduced Cavity Risk

As it turns out, breastfeeding also reduces your child’s risk for cavities. This is no small feat, as the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that 23% of children from ages two to five experience tooth decay.

How is this possible, when most children in those age ranges don’t even have permanent teeth yet? Well, milk and formula contain sugar, which fuels cavity causing bacteria. Compared to bottle-feeding, breastfeeding limits your child’s exposure to these harmful substances.

#3. Continuing to Watch Out for Cavities

Natural nursing reduces your little one’s risk for cavities, but it’s important to note that it doesn’t eliminate the possibility completely. You can see this more concretely in how cavity rates among young children continue to hover around that 23%. This is despite the fact that breastfeeding trends have steadily increased since 2007!

To help protect your little one from tooth decay, gently wipe their gums and teeth with a soft cloth after feeding. When they grow their very first tooth, brush carefully with a tiny pinch of toothpaste.

#4. Sharing is Not Always Caring

It’s well-known that bacteria can spread through contact, especially if it’s oral. Sharing a spoon, cup, or other utensil with your infant can transfer cavity-causers to their mouth. This can be more of an issue if you’ve been skipping out on brushing sessions. Life with a newborn baby is hectic, but taking care of yourself is good for both your health and theirs.

#5. Visit a Pediatric Dentist Early

Pediatric dentists suggest that you bring your infant in for a visit after six months. That might seem early, but this first checkup is more of a meet-and-greet. Your pediatric dentist will quickly examine your baby’s mouth to make sure their oral development is going smoothly. This is a good time to ask questions about early dental care and growing teeth. The pros will tell you everything you need to know!

About the Author

As an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Ramu Vuppala is highly qualified to take care of your child’s oral needs. Of course, he can also inform mothers about the best ways to promote their little one’s dental health. If you have questions about pediatric dentistry or would like to make an appointment for your infant, call 432-520-5437. Dr. Vuppala and the Midland Kid’s Dentist team will be happy to help!