A child’s mouth is not just a smaller version of an adult’s mouth. It’s important to assess the health and development of a child’s teeth to prevent problems and ensure a healthy smile. Dr. Rakusan recommends a child have their first visit within 6 months after the eruption of their first tooth. Education and early detection is the key to having a positive experience for your child at the dentist.
A common, but easily preventable pediatric condition is baby bottle decay. Also called bottle syndrome, it is a serious condition that can destroy your child’s primary (baby) teeth. It occurs when teeth are frequently exposed to liquids that contain sugar such as milk, formula or fruit juice. Harmful bacteria feed on sugars. The liquid from the bottle pools around your child’s teeth, providing food for decay-causing bacteria. The bacteria form acids that dissolve tooth enamel, causing decay. Any liquid that contains sugar — even breast milk can cause decay.