Baby bottle syndrome refers to the tooth decay in an infant or child due to prolonged exposure to liquids containing sugars. One of the common problems in children, it usually affects the upper front teeth. The following are the causes, signs and symptoms, and home remedies for the condition.
Causes
According to Web MD, baby bottle syndrome occurs when liquids with sugars such as formula, milk, and fruit juice are in an infant’s mouth for a long time. As per the publication, the mouth contains bacteria, which feed on the sugar, and they form acids that destroy the teeth. Also, saliva slows slowly during sleep. The end result is tooth decay. As per the publication, children whose pacifiers are often dipped in sugar and syrup are at risk for the condition.
Signs and Symptoms
Tooth decay in baby bottle syndrome may become severe and it presents several signs and symptoms. According to Colgate, these include brown or black spots on the teeth, bleeding or swollen gums, halitosis or bad breath, swelling, irritability, and fever, which indicate infection.
Home Remedies
While fluoride treatment or fluoride vanish help deal with baby bottle syndrome, home remedies can also be done to manage the condition.
Proper Hygiene
Hygiene is an important aspect when it comes to remedy of baby bottle syndrome. According to Sun Signs, it serves as the best home remedy to reverse, as well as prevent the condition from affecting the child’s dental health. Proper hygiene, as per the publication, includes the usage of soft cloth to wipe the gums and teeth, brushing the teeth, and usage of pea-sized dot of toothpaste It is added that non-fluoride toothpaste may be given to a child who cannot spit out the toothpaste.
Water
Another remedy for baby bottle syndrome is water. According to DIY Remedy, water can easily replace drinks and thirst, since it does not have any sugar content. In addition, water flushes sugar in the mouth, which prevents rotting of the child’s teeth. Thus, it is best to consider giving the infant or encouraging the child to drink lots of water within the day.
Clove Powder
Clove powder also serves as remedy for baby bottle syndrome. As per Top Health Remedies, clove helps clean the teeth and remove the bacteria in the teeth. As a result, bad smell coming from the mouth, as well as the decay, is also managed. Like water, clove powder is accessible in the household and it is safe for use in children.
Nutrition
Nutrition and diet are vital ingredients that help manage baby bottle syndrome. According to Cure Tooth Decay, tooth decay is due to lack of vitamins necessary for the bones. These vitamins, as per the publication, include calcium, phosphorus, and the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Sources of vitamin A include carrots and squash while milk and anchovies are sources of vitamin D. Green leafy vegetables are also rich in vitamins E and K; however, these food selections should be tested one at a time to determine if the infant or baby has allergies.
Prevention
Prevention is better than cure. As per Hutchinson Smiles, baby bottle syndrome can be prevented by cleaning the child’s teeth daily; not allowing the child to fall asleep with a bottle filled with milk, formula, or juice; not letting the child sip on a bottle filled with milk, formula, or juice for prolonged periods as pacifier; giving the child plain water when he or she is thirsty; ensuring the child’s receipt of fluoride to prevent tooth decay; and making regular appointments with the dentists upon first tooth eruption.
Baby bottle syndrome is the tooth decay caused by exposure to sugary liquids for prolonged periods. Thus, it is best to seek medical consult from the dentist for proper assessment, planning, intervention, education, and evaluation.
