Early childhood tooth decay
Short answer: Czarkowski Pediatric Dentistry says early childhood tooth decay affects baby teeth and can develop quickly when sugary liquids stay on the teeth, for example when a child goes to bed with a bottle[1].
What is early childhood tooth decay?
The practice says early childhood tooth decay, also called early childhood caries, is a type of decay that affects baby teeth in infants and young children and can develop quickly when sugary liquids stay on the teeth for long periods[1]. Wikidata describes early childhood caries as a dental disease of young children[2].
What does the practice say causes it?
The practice says a common cause is putting a baby or toddler to bed with a bottle, because liquid sits on the teeth while the child sleeps and gives bacteria more time to make harmful acids. It lists milk, formula, juice and sweetened drinks as drinks that can increase the risk[1]. Its pediatric dentistry page describes the condition as one caused by a child staying on the bottle or breast too long[3].
What tips does the practice list?
The practice lists: put a child to bed with plain water only; avoid nursing a child while asleep or after active feeding stops; do not let a child carry a bottle of milk or juice during the day; start teaching cup drinking at around 6 months; try to stop bottle use by 12 to 14 months; and never dip pacifiers in honey, sugar or other sweet substances[1]. These are the practice’s suggestions; ask your child’s dentist or pediatrician about feeding questions.
When should a dentist look at a child’s teeth?
The practice says the earlier the dental visit, the better the chances of preventing problems[3], and that the first visit should be no later than the first birthday[4]. See first visit.
Frequently asked questions
What is another name for early childhood tooth decay?
The practice also calls it early childhood caries.
What does the practice suggest for bedtime bottles?
Plain water only, according to the practice.
See also
References
- ^ a b c d Early Childhood Tooth Decay. Czarkowski Pediatric Dentistry (czarkowskipediatricdentistry.com). Retrieved 28 October 2026.
- ^ Early childhood caries (Q2005391). Wikidata. Retrieved 31 October 2026.
- ^ a b Why A Pediatric Dentist?. Czarkowski Pediatric Dentistry (czarkowskipediatricdentistry.com). Retrieved 28 October 2026.
- ^ When & What Is My Child's First “Regular” Visit?. Czarkowski Pediatric Dentistry (czarkowskipediatricdentistry.com). Retrieved 28 October 2026.