As a nursing parent, you probably already know that breast milk is considered the gold standard of early nutrition. But did you know that breastfeeding can also play a meaningful role in the healthy development of your child’s mouth, jaw, and teeth? The connection between nursing and oral health might seem surprising, but it’s important to highlight. Here are four key things you need to keep in mind.
1. Breastfeeding Supports Healthy Jaw Development
The physical act of nursing requires infants to coordinate the movement of their lips, tongue, jaw, and facial muscles in a way that bottle feeding doesn’t fully replicate. This type of muscle engagement helps stimulate the natural development of the jaw and lower face. Research even suggests that babies who are breastfed tend to have better-developed dental arches and may be less likely to experience issues like crowding, narrow palates, and misaligned bites as their teeth emerge.
2. Breastfeeding Reduces the Risk of Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Baby bottle tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems in young children. It occurs when a baby’s teeth are frequently exposed to sugary liquids for extended periods of time, most often when a child is put to bed with a bottle of formula, juice, or milk. The liquid pools around the teeth while they sleep, creating an environment where decay-causing bacteria thrive. Breastfeeding, by its very nature, significantly reduces this risk!
3. You Should Clean Your Baby’s Mouth Before Their Teeth Appear
Before any teeth are present, you should gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth or a soft infant gum brush after feedings. This helps remove milk residue and begins familiarizing your baby with the sensation of having their mouth cleaned, which is a habit that will pay off when teeth arrive. Once the first tooth appears, it’s time to start brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled infant toothbrush and a tiny, rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. This is also the recommended time to schedule your baby’s first dental checkup.
4. Don’t Neglect Your Own Dental Health
Believe it or not, the bacteria that cause tooth decay can be transmitted from parent to child. Sharing utensils, cleaning a pacifier with your mouth, or even kissing your baby on the lips can transfer cavity-causing bacteria from your mouth to theirs. This means that your own oral health is directly relevant to your baby’s risk for early childhood decay. Keeping up with your own dental appointments, treating any untreated cavities, and maintaining good brushing and flossing habits helps protect not just you, but your little one as well.
Breastfeeding offers a wonderful range of benefits for your baby’s oral development, from healthier jaw growth to meaningful protection against the baby bottle tooth decay that affects so many young children. Just be sure it’s paired with consistent oral hygiene habits!
About the Practice
With board-certified pediatric dentists Dr. Nelson and Dr. JoJo leading the way, we proudly serve families in Murphy and the surrounding area, offering a wide range of pediatric services for kids of all ages. Whether your child has just grown their first tooth or they have a full smile in need of care, trust that we can help! If you have any questions about the blog or need to schedule a visit for your child, call or reach out online for more information. Telephone: (469) 972-0054.