Baby's Teeth: The Early Years

Breast and bottle-feeding should be stopped around one year old. Prolonged and especially night time feeding can cause holes in the first (deciduous) teeth.

Soya infant formulae can cause cavities and should only be used under medical supervision. Drinks containing free sugars, including natural fruit juices, should be avoided between meals and should never be put in a feeding bottle.

In the first year it is best to encourage water or milk only. It is better to reduce exposure to 'sugary foods' in the first two years and try to keep sugars to meal times only. Never put your child to bed with a bottle or a beaker.

Teeth should be brushed with a smear of toothpaste as soon as they show in the mouth, helping to familiarize the baby with the brush and paste, and the act of tooth - brushing.

Comforters, Dummies and Thumb sucking.

Children often stop thumb sucking by 3 to 4 years old. If thumb or dummy sucking continues beyond this age it can cause problems with the growth of the teeth, occasionaly necessitating complex orthodontic managment. If you have any concerns or want help with stopping the habit, please ask for advice.