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One of the decisions a mother would make is whether to breastfeed or not. Breastfeeding is known to have many benefits for the baby. Breastfeeding has several impacts on the dental health of the mother and the baby.

Breastfeeding vs. Bottle-feeding

Research suggests that infants who are being fed through a bottle are more common to have cavities compared to those who breastfeed. Feeding the child through a bottle might be convenient, but that would also mean that the child’s teeth are exposed to milk for extended periods of time. Milk is an example of a sugary substance that is the common reason of cavities. Bacteria can feed on the sugar that is in the teeth then create acids that could destroy the tooth enamel which would result in cavities. This practice might also affect the child’s permanent teeth when it starts to erupt. Though breastfeeding also has sugar, the milk is being squirted at the back of the mouth reducing the contact with the teeth compared to bottles that pass through the teeth before being swallowed.

Breastfeeding may prevent crooked teeth

According to a study, babies who were breastfed for six months are less likely to have crooked teeth. The risk of open, cross, and overbites are being reduced in breastfeeding. Other factors might be the cause of crooked teeth like genetics, thumbsucking, and pacifier. Make sure to consult your dentist to examine the child’s teeth to take preventive measures while it is still early.

Be mindful of the Medications you take

There are medications you take that enter your bloodstream, being a nursing mother means that it is also mixing in your breastmilk. Some medications are breast milk safe while other medicines might not be safe for intake while breastfeeding. If you would undergo any procedures that would involve the intake of medicines make sure to inform the dentist so that he can prescribe a medicine that will be safe for your baby.

You need to take care of your oral health

Most of the time if there is a new baby in the house, mothers tend to forget about themselves. They might brush their teeth in a hurry or even skip brushing their teeth. Lack of oral hygiene might lead to cavities or even gum disease. With that, you might be able to transmit bacteria to your babies while sharing a spoon and even kissing them.

Make sure that you brush daily, floss, and also rinse regularly to keep your mouth healthy. Remember to take care of yourself first so that you can properly take care of your child too.

Contact us to book your appointment and let us help you with your dental needs including Regular checkups in Modesto. We are located at 2801 Coffee Road, Building B, Modesto, CA 95355, or call us at (209) 273 -4733.