Why tooth decay in babies is problematic for their general health
They may not be permanent, but infant teeth are crucial for development and nutrition. Here’s why baby tooth decay is a problem for general health.
You might think cavities in baby teeth aren’t such a big deal, given they fall out anyway.
But it turns out baby teeth are vital for good health.
Dental problems are the leading cause of preventable hospital cases in young children, and as many as half of Australian children under six have untreated tooth decay.
What causes baby tooth decay?
When we eat sweet foods and drinks, the bacteria in our mouth change the sugar into acid, which attacks the enamel on our teeth, leaving them vulnerable to decay.
“Tooth decay in infants is caused by the same things that cause decay in older children and adults – sugar,” University of Melbourne senior lecturer in paediatric dentistry Dr Mihiri Silva says.
“What some people don’t realise is that there is actually quite a bit of sugar – or lactose – in milk.”
In fact, a 2022 study found the two biggest risk factors for infant cavities to be sugar and early weaning.
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Why are baby teeth important?
Dr Luke Cronin says is a baby’s tooth becomes decayed it requires a general anaesthetic to have it removed.
“This is quite traumatic and distressing for the parents, as well as the child,” Dr Cronin says.
Baby tooth decay can also hamper jaw development because missing teeth leave gaps that can allow surrounding teeth to move and prevent permanent teeth from coming in properly.
“Tooth decay in infants is problematic on so many levels,” Dr Silva says.
“Decayed and missing teeth can also prevent a child smiling, which is not great for their social development, and can affect an infant’s ability to eat properly, impacting nutrition.”
Why parents should beware of bedtime bottles
Dr Cronin says one of the biggest problems is bedtime bottles.
“Putting children to bed with a bottle is a major cause of tooth decay because it causes the child’s teeth to be bathed in sugar all night,” he says.
Dr Cronin says sippy cups are also problematic.
“Filling sippy cups with juice or – God forbid – soft drink, or dipping dummies in honey, is also a big issue because this increases the frequency of sugar on the teeth,” he says.
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Why diet is crucial to children’s teeth health
“Once children go on to solids, it’s important to remember that fresh fruit, vegetables and the things you make at home are best,” Dr Silva says.
“Pre-packaged and processed foods are convenient, but you should avoid giving children too much flavour early in life – you don’t want your child to get used to the taste of sugar.”
The paediatric dentist advises getting the whole family on board with your healthy choices so no one sabotages your efforts with sweet treats.
How to establish good dental routines
Dr Silva recommends starting a cleaning regime early, brushing children’s teeth with a soft brush twice a day as soon as they appear.
“Avoid toothpaste until they are about 18 months old, then from 18 months to six years the Australian guidelines recommend using low-fluoride toothpaste,” she says.
Dr Silva says you should aim to take your baby to the dentist from about 12 months, or as soon as the first tooth comes through.
“It’s important to establish those expectations and set up those really good habits for life,” she says.
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Written by Dimity Barber.
