The Tribune

By Dr Tamika Ferguson

Children need healthy teeth in order to chew food and speak clearly. Despite what many may think, primary teeth are just as essential as their permanent successors. It is important to teach your child good oral hygiene habits from young so they will take these practices into adolescence and adulthood.

Shockingly, tooth decay is the number one childhood disease. There is a specific term used for rampant decay in infants and young children, early childhood caries (ECC) or baby bottle tooth decay.

ECC is an infectious disease caused by certain types of bacteria that live in the mouth. The bacteria stick to the plaque on the teeth. They feed on what you eat or drink (especially sugars) and acid formation occurs.

This acid in turn breaks down the tooth’s outer surface resulting in demineralisation, therefore causing cavities. CC usually occurs in the upper front teeth but can affect all the teeth in the mouth. Children who snack frequently or go to sleep with a bottle (excluding water) have a greater risk of developing ECC.

If your child is exposed to sugary liquids – such as milk, breast milk, formula, and fruit juice – for long periods of time they are more likely to have ECC.

Although these liquids are nutritious, the naturally occurring sugars they contain can contribute to the decaying process. When children go to bed with a bottle containing milk or juice, the liquid sits in the child’s mouth for an extended period. The sugar from the liquid coats the child’s teeth and creates the perfect environment for bacteria. Further, interestingly, research shows that children are not born with bacteria that cause decay instead they are infected with it from a caregiver. If you share the same spoon or fork with an infant you are introducing them to bacteria that cause cavities. If you have ever had a cavity or have untreated cavities you are likely to pass bacteria to your child by sharing utensils.

Consequences of ECC

• Higher risk of new carious lesions in both the primary and permanent dentitions

• Increased treatment costs and time

• Child may lose weight due to not being able to eat

• Loss of school days to receive treatment

• Diminished ability to learn

How to prevent ECC

• Avoid sharing spoons and forks with your child and use water to clean pacifiers (do not place them in your mouth)

• Wipe out the baby’s mouth with a damp washcloth twice a day

• When your child’s teeth erupt, brush them with an appropriate toothbrush and a smear of toothpaste

• Supervise their tooth brushing until the age of six or seven

• Encourage healthy eating habits

As a parent it is your responsibility to take care of your child’s oral health until they are able to do so. From a young age, introduce your child to the dental environment. Allow your child to build a trusting relationship with his or her dentist. ECC is preventable; do not allow your child to become a statistic. Remember, starting early is the key to a lifetime of good dental health!