We understand you're always looking for the best ways to care for your child's health, and that includes their oral health! You may know that breastfeeding provides numerous health benefits to your baby. You may have heard that it can also pose some risk to developing teeth. Let’s break down how to maximize healthy breast feeding and your baby’s chances for optimal oral health too!

Yay for Breastfeeding!

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life with complimentary breastfeeding up to 2 years of age. Breastmilk offers nutrition uniquely adapted to a human infants needs.  Additionally, successful breastfeeding* is associated with a reduced risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), other respiratory and airway problems and GI issues. Breastfeeding plays a crucial role in the development of a baby's oral cavity, including the teeth and jaw. The sucking mechanism involved in breastfeeding helps in the proper development of the facial structures and mouth and sets the stage for healthy, well-aligned baby teeth. There are also benefits to a nursing mom, including increased post-partum weight loss and some protection against breast and ovarian cancers and Type 2 diabetes.  

The Impact of Breastfeeding on Baby Teeth

You may have heard that breastfeeding or bottle feeding can pose risks to your baby's oral health, potentially causing decay. In the first year of life, breastfeeding may actually reduce the risk of baby bottle tooth decay, a common dental problem in infants who are bottle-fed.  Breastfeeding alone does not increase a child’s risk of tooth decay. However, there can be other risk factors at play that mean being strategic on breastfeeding, other feeding and oral hygiene routines can reduce your child’s risk for early tooth decay, know as Early Childhood Caries, and give them the best chance for a bright smile while they grow.  

Caregiver Risks

You may have heard people say that cavities or bad teeth are genetic. While not completely accurate, we will see breastfeeding play a role in tooth decay when a parent or caregiver has active decay. The high bacteria count from the caregivers’ cavities can easily be transmitted through saliva to baby, creating bacterial imbalance that favor the creation of cavities.  In a way, cavities are more “contagious” than genetic. While this can be hard to avoid, it is worth being aware of and making sure caregivers practice good oral health care to limit this risk.  

Diet Risks

The risk for breastmilk-related tooth decay also increases when an infant starts solid foods.  Starchy and sweet foods in particular stick to teeth and create plaque. Breast feeding complementary to solid snacks and meals feeds cavity-making bacteria in plaque which results in acid that can breakdown the enamel of teeth. Little ones are especially at risk for enamel breakdown if they are having several instances of feeding, between solids and breastmilk, through a 24 hour period.  

Poor Hygiene Risks

Lack of early oral hygiene measures can also increase the risk of early tooth decay related to breast feeding and breastmilk. Babies, kids and adults alike all make less saliva when we sleep. Why is this an issue? Saliva helps neutralize acids after meals that would otherwise cause tooth decay. However, if we fall asleep immediately after eating, our mouth environment stays acidic longer, meaning that cavities can develop overnight, while sleeping. To reduce this risk, it is recommended to complete all meals and feedings first, then brush the teeth before bed to remove plaque and milk sugars. Clean teeth while sleeping is key. For babies who still wake for middle-of-the night feedings, wiping the teeth down with a damp cloth or xylitol wipe can get you through. As luck would have it, just as little ones are exploring more solid foods, they begin exploring their independence with movement and walking, which can make them more resistant to healthy routines like diaper changes and tooth care. Dr. Shah and her friendly and helpful team can give pro tips on how to design your evening routine for success!

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) encourages breastfeeding with care to wipe down tooth surfaces after feedings once teeth erupt. They go on to recommend avoiding ad-lib breastfeeding once teeth erupt, and avoiding night time breastfeeding and breastfeeding more than 6 times daily after the age of 12 months. These steps can reduce the risk of frightening findings on your child’s early dental visits.  

When Should I Take My Baby to The Dentist?

Did you know that some Pediatric Dentists , like Dr. Shah, can help you on your breastfeeding and earliest oral health routine struggles? If you are struggling to establish successful breastfeeding, Dr. Shah is trained in identifying and treating oral-related obstacles so that mom and baby can breastfeed successfully. As a mom herself, Dr. Shah is an expert in setting routines at each stage that will help optimize your baby’s best health and help you navigate the age appropriate but tricky battles parents encounter. The key is to start early, with addressing any breast-feeding struggles as they arise, and starting an oral health routine when baby gets their first tooth, or no later than their first birthday.  

Early oral care sets the foundation for a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles, and your infant dentist in San Francisco is here for your family to help you achieve it! At Mission Bay Pediatric Dentistry, we understand the unique dental needs of your child. We are committed to providing the highest quality care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We believe that good oral and feeding health is an integral part of your child's overall health. Schedule an infant dentistry appointment by calling (415) 825-3323. Let's work together to give your child a healthy, beautiful smile.