Tooth decay in infants and very young children are often referred to as baby bottle tooth decay. Baby bottle tooth decay happens when sweetened liquids or those with natural sugars (like milk, formula, and fruit juice) cling to an infant's teeth for a long time. Bacteria in the mouth thrive on this sugar and make acids that attack the teeth.
Presenting a case of full coronal restoration of lower anterior teeth with strip crowns in a 2.4-year-old child with nursing bottle caries. The patient was treated chair-side without local anesthesia.
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Gum pad cleaning with a soft gauze/muslin cloth for children under 6 months is a must.
Start brushing/cleaning with a finger brush as early as the first tooth eruption.
A pediatric dentist visit around the first toothโs eruption time to specifically discuss breastfeeding, oral supplements, and oral hygiene maintenance is vital.
Remember, Prevention is always better than treatment.