If you’re a new or expecting mother, it’s important to know your baby’s oral health journey begins well before their first tooth erupts. In fact, early eating habits—breastfeeding in particular—heavily affect children’s dental health. If you’re currently nursing or plan to, here are a few important things to know about how the practice can affect your child’s dental care.

Simple Guide to Breastfeeding and Pediatric Dental Care

Does Breastfeeding Offer Oral Health Benefits?

While there are many health benefits associated with breast milk, you may not know the practice also has a positive impact on a child’s oral health. Specifically, the American Dental Association recognizes the association between breastfeeding and a lower risk of alignment issues—such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Regular breastfeeding also reduces the amount of time an infant spends bottle-feeding, a practice that can increase a child’s risk of cavity development.

Should I Stop Breastfeeding When My Child’s First Tooth Erupts?

It’s a common misconception that mothers should stop breastfeeding when their babies start teething—usually at about six months of age. In reality, breast milk is the best source of nutrition for babies through their first year of life, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Therefore, it is suitable to continue breastfeeding well after babies cut their first teeth.

If you wish to continue nursing but find it uncomfortable while your child is teething, a lactation consultant can help identify a less painful breastfeeding configuration.

Can Breastfeeding Cause Cavities?

Although breastfeeding offers a variety of benefits for babies, research suggests it can negatively affect an infant’s overall oral hygiene. Specifically, breast milk contains natural sugars that can potentially contribute to tooth decay. Parents must also recognize formula, genetics, and poor dental care habits can also increase a child’s risk of tooth decay. For this reason, concern over cavities shouldn’t stop you from breastfeeding. Instead, regularly clean your baby’s teeth and gums, and work with a pediatric dentist to ensure their oral health is on track.

If you’re curious about the impact breastfeeding has on your child’s dental health or want advice about maintaining your infant’s oral hygiene, La Crosse Pediatric Dentistry can help. This Western Wisconsin clinic offers gentle dental care to keep each patient comfortable. To learn more about this pediatric dentist’s state-of-the-art services, visit them online. For appointments, call a friendly team member at (608) 782-4054.