Severe Early Childhood Caries (formerly known as baby bottle decay)
Severe Early Childhood Caries in infants is caused from the long exposure and amount of sugar-filled liquids ingested such as such as milk, breast milk, formula, and fruit juice. Any sugar, even natural sugars in the previous liquids mentioned, will cause cavities all night long if not cleaned off before going to sleep.
The decay can be minimized or totally prevented by not allowing sleeping infants to breast or bottle-feed. Infants that need a bottle to comfortably fall asleep should be given a water-filled bottle or a pacifier. You also need to wipe (with infant toothbrush or a washcloth) your infant’s teeth and gums to remove plaque after each feeding. No toothpaste is needed before age 2, but you can use infant toothpaste for flavor if you would like. (The most important ingredient in toothpaste is fluoride, which is not recommended until age 2, unless your dentist recommends it earlier.)
Thumb Sucking
Sucking is a natural reflex that relaxes and comforts babies and toddlers. The habit will often resolve on its own, but otherwise it is recommended to stop by age 3. Thumb sucking that persists beyond the eruption of primary teeth can cause improper growth of the mouth and misalignment of the teeth. (Unfortunately, this also includes the thumb sucking while sleeping, which is a little harder to stop.)
Here are some ways to help your child outgrow thumb sucking:
- Don’t scold a child when they exhibit thumb sucking behavior; instead, praise them when they don’t thumb suck.
- Focus on eliminating the cause of anxiety—thumb sucking is a comfort device that helps children cope with stress or discomfort.
- Praise them when they refrain from the habit during difficult periods.
- Place a bandage on the thumb or a sock on their hand at night.
- Make a positive reinforcement calendar. Place a gold star for each day without thumb sucking. Pick a prize after 30 days in a row are achieved. (About the time needed to break a habit.)
Grinding (Bruxism)
Bruxism is the grinding of teeth while your child sleeps. Two indications of grinding include the “grinding” noise while your child sleeps and the wear on his/her teeth. A majority of children grind their teeth.
Most children outgrow grinding between the ages 6 – 9.
Orthodontic Problems
A bite that does not meet properly (a malocclusion) can be inherited, or some types may be acquired. These problems can be diagnosed as early as 2 – 3 years of age and if diagnosed early enough, early intervention can take place to avoid major orthodontic treatment later.
Some causes of malocclusion include missing or extra teeth, crowded teeth or misaligned jaws. Accidents or developmental issues, such as finger or thumb sucking over an extended period of time, may cause malocclusions.