Three Surprising Sugar Sources Your Toddler May be Consuming

Tooth decay is one of the most dangerous tooth problems that may be affecting your toddler's developing teeth. Tooth decay is the process by which the structure of the teeth is damaged due to breaking down of sugars by bacteria in the mouth.

It results in softened tooth enamel that results in cavities. Tooth decay usually begins when plaque bacteria feast on the leftover sugar in your baby's teeth. This leads to increased production of oral acids that dissolve the tooth's enamel slowly. With time, the acid creates holes in the teeth and cavities. The softened enamel also acts as a doorway to other infections of the tooth. If left untreated, the cycle does not stop her. More acid is produced as the bacteria continue feasting on the sugars in the teeth. Luckily, you can terminate this devastating cycle through regular dental checkups and maintaining oral hygiene.

However, the essential precaution you can take is depriving the existing bacteria the sugar it breaks down. This can be done by limiting the amount of sugars your baby takes daily. Before limiting the sugar consumption, you need to identify the sources of the sugars to your toddler. It is easy to miss sugar intakes in your baby, which can lead to tooth decay.

THE FOLLOWING ARE SOME OF THE SUGAR SOURCES THAT ARE NOT OBVIOUS IN A TODDLER.

WHEN FEEDING

Breastfeeding is a healthy and natural way to nourish your baby, and on its own, breast milk does not directly cause tooth decay. However, when combined with other foods or drinks that are high in sugar, it can contribute to a condition known as early childhood caries. The presence of sugar-rich substances alongside breast milk can increase the amount of sugar that remains on and around your child's teeth, creating an environment where decay can develop. While breastfeeding remains beneficial for both infants and toddlers, it's important to limit their intake of sugary foods and beverages to help protect their oral health.

BOTTLES AND PACIFIERS USED 24/7

Infants become restless at times, and adults use pacifiers and bottles to help calm them down. These pacifiers and bottles are usually supplemented with sugars and sweet liquids to calm the child more. This practice may not be harmful if done once in a while. Unfortunately, constant use of these practices leads to increased sugar content in your child, which contributes to tooth decay. Avoiding the use of pacifiers and bottles with sweeteners is crucial.

MEDICATIONS

Some medications are known to affect a baby's tooth development. These medications contain small amounts of sugars that provide bacteria with food to breakdown to acids. Some medicines are also known to affect the production of saliva that is essential in neutralizing acids after meals. Always ask your healthcare provider if the medication provided has any dental effects. It is better if you can find sugar-free medications if possible. If not, you will want to brush your infant's teeth after administering their medication. You will also want to include regular dental checkups to monitor the development of your child's teeth. It is important to limit the sugar intake of your infant to allow proper growth and development of their teeth. You can follow the above guidelines if you want to maintain the dental health of your infant. You can also contact Greater Houston Pediatric Dentistry if you have any questions regarding tooth decay or schedule an appointment with us for a consultation and checkup with your infant.