Does Breastfeeding Affect Your Child’s Teeth?

Breastfeeding is one of the most personal decisions mothers make for their newborns. It provides a valuable bonding experience for mother and baby. Numerous studies have established that breastfeeding reduces an infant’s risk for health issues like asthma, SIDS, and obesity. It also has positive effects on baby teeth.

Breastfeeding Aids in Bite Alignment

Nursing mothers understand that breastfeeding is good for their general health and the baby’s. It’s important to remember that it also promotes proper jaw and tooth development in kids. Infants who are exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months are less likely to have crooked teeth or bite alignment issues.

It should be noted that every child is different and breastfeeding doesn’t necessarily mean your child will not experience orthodontic problems in the future. Usually, many factors influence bite alignment, including thumb-sucking, pacifier use, and genetics.

Decrease Your Child’s Risk of Tooth Decay

Breastfeeding reduces the risk of baby bottle tooth decay, which happens when a baby is put to bed with a bottle that contains formula, milk, or fruit juice. Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, it’s important to take care of your baby’s teeth from the onset. Wipe your infant’s gums daily with a clean, moist gauze pad, or washcloth and once the teeth emerge, brush them twice daily with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

Call Carolina Smiles Dentistry at 919-620-6700 to schedule your next appointment and learn more about pediatric oral health care. We look forward to helping you with your child’s oral health.

*Stock photographs and artwork are for illustrative purposes only. **This blog/post contains general information about medical conditions and treatments. You must not rely on this blog/post as an alternative to medical advice from your dentist or other healthcare providers. Please see our full disclaimer at www.CarolinaSmilesNC.com.