Tooth decay in young children, or baby bottle tooth decay, is a serious issue. Although temporary, baby teeth are incredibly important for future dental health. They’re vital in developing speech and good eating habits. Moreover, infection, decay, or loss in baby teeth can establish problems that will affect permanent teeth later. After more than 24 years as a kids’ dentist, Allen K. Hirai, DDS understands the importance of protecting your child’s teeth. With the experienced team at Pediatric Dentistry Kahala, he recommends these tips for preventing baby bottle tooth decay:

• Say Goodbye To Sugar: Bottles filled with juice, soft drinks, or other sugary drinks coat infants’ teeth with sugars. Bacteria feast on the sugars, decaying teeth. This is especially true for bottles right before bedtime or a nap, as saliva production decreases during sleep. The pediatric dental experts at Pediatric Dentistry Kahala recommend only filling your child’s bottle with formula, milk, or water. Also, skip dipping pacifiers in sugar or honey.
• Keep Things Clean: After feeding, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a damp gauze pad or washcloth. Once teeth start to come in, you’ll want to start brushing. Be gentle, using a child-size toothbrush and a rice grain-sized amount of toothpaste. The kids’ dentistry specialists at Pediatric Dentistry Kahala will be happy to help you select the right tools for your child’s needs.
• Help Them Grow: As your children grow, their pediatric dental needs do too. Try to encourage your child to drink from a cup by his or her first birthday, as prolonged bottle usage can encourage decay. By the time they turn one, your child should also have their first dental visit. The friendly, experienced kids’ dentist at Pediatric Dentistry Kahala will make sure that first appointment is a positive, productive experience for both you and your child.

Dr. Hirai and the kids’ dentistry team at Pediatric Dentistry Kahala are devoted to providing excellent dental care to children in Honolulu, Kahala, and Manoa. Call (808) 737-0076 to schedule a visit to their fun, friendly office today, or visit their website to learn more.