Oftentimes, adults fail to see the importance of dental health for kids. Some even argue that it is just fine for children to have rotten teeth. They say kid's teeth are temporary ones and will undergo a natural or self-fix once permanent teeth start to grow. That is somehow true. But the reality is half the battle of adult dental problems is won when teeth and gums are properly cared for in the early years.
Believe it or not, tooth decay can occur as soon as nursing years. This condition is called the baby bottle tooth decay. The gums and teeth of your baby is at risk when it is in constant contact with sugars that are present in the breast milk, formulas, fruit juices and plain water with sugar. The sugars in these substances stay in the babies' mouths for a long time. Afterwards, bacteria feed on the sugar deposits and they eventually damage the gums and teeth. Tooth decay can cause pain and discomfort to children. More so, it can cause the misalignment of permanent which grow some years later.
As part of dental health for kids, parents and primary caregivers of children are advised to clean the baby's mouth with a small piece of cotton dabbed in clean water after bottle feeding sessions. Refrain from pacifying or putting the baby to sleep by bottle feeding him with milk. Instead have a pacifier ready at times like this. As soon as the baby becomes a toddler, lessen his use of feeding bottles. Teach him how to use cups with straws.