Identification and Cure of Feeding Bottle Tooth Decay

Feeding bottle tooth decay may invariably be identified by a dentist while examining. Essentially, while tooth decay becomes perceptible enough to be identified, saving it may become belated when cure and restitution could become inevitable. Occasionally, parents/caregivers diagnose deviations in child’s teeth deserving immediate attention of dentist/physician. Scientists are probing innovative ways to perceive early baby bottle tooth decay.

Feeding bottle tooth decays’ indications are difficult to perceive early. The indications are not likely to be obvious till the decay has attacked a bit on teeth and gums. Habitual dental check-ups are advisable. The dentist can estimate the teeth so minutely and observe

• the condition of the gums
• the current condition of the teeth
• the enamel
• the sensitivity of the teeth
• the structure of the inside and outside of the teeth.

In cases of severity, children may develop extensive cavities requiring the tooth to be extricated. This normally happens when the child reaches its third birthday and could be performed with general anesthesia. The choices of treatment for established BBTD may vary depending on the progress of the ailment.

Detecting teeth’s demineralization at early stage besides white lines or spots may help remineralizing the teeth applying fluoride besides modifying diet to some extent. A visit to a dentist will evaluate the risk possessed by the child when the dentist will apprise ways to prevent such disease.

If obvious decay is present, covering with stainless or veneered capping may be advised. Adhesive fillings generally have inferior prospects on frontal primary teeth as far as retained and recurrent decays are concerned.

If the decay has penetrated into the pulp chamber, the same can be overcome with pulp therapy and extraction. Though frontal primary teeth are generally spaced, maintaining space is an apprehension for subsequent primary teeth and hence it may not be essential.

Since very young children may not be able to withstand the pain during extraction, they may need sedation or general anesthesia and the dentist will be better able to advice on this matter.

Prevention is better than cure. If feeding bottle tooth rots develops, the cure for the same depends on the extent of the rot and for this, following up with a dentist becomes important. Treatment may comprise

- Antibiotics to combat infection
- Filling dental cavities
- Pulling a tooth or teeth in certain cases
- Teaching a caregiver on providing tooth care.

The treatment may evoke side effects which are