As a parent, you have the option between bottle feeding and breastfeeding your babies, but could one option be preferable to the other? Although there is nothing wrong with bottle feeding, dentists explain that breastfeeding offers a few distinct perks. Here is a little more information about how breastfeeding can impact your infant’s smile. 

How Does Breastfeeding Benefit Your Baby’s Teeth?

Babies who are primarily breastfed within their first six months tend to have fewer problems with their dental alignment, such as crossbites, overbites, or underbites, than bottle fed babies. This is because breastfeeding is a more strenuous activity that exercises the baby’s jaw muscles. Bottle feeding is more passive and puts pressure on the jaw, leading to alignment issues. It is important to note, however, that factors such as thumbsucking and heavy pacifier use can still lead to craniofacial issues.

Additionally, since bottle-fed babies can be put to bed with a bottle and then sip on milk throughout the night, breastfed babies are less likely to develop baby bottle tooth decay, a condition caused by the teeth being bathed in sugary milk too frequently. 

Can Breastfed Babies Still Struggle With Tooth Decay? 

Because breast milk contains sugar, it is possible for babies to develop early tooth decay, even if they are exclusively breastfeeding. To prevent this issue, dentists recommend wiping down your child’s gums with a piece of clean, wet gauze before they get teeth, and teaching your child to brush as soon as possible after they get teeth. Children should have a dentist’s appointment as soon as they develop their first teeth or as soon as they turn one — whichever event occurs first. 

When it comes to improving your child’s dental health, seeking early dental care is essential. By talking with the dentists at Four Corners Dental Group, you can find out how to take care of your child’s smile from day one, preventing a variety of oral health issues. With two convenient locations in Alaska, you can find great dental care for your entire family. Learn more about their dental services by visiting their website or call (907) 258-3384 to schedule an appointment in Anchorage. To reach their Wasilla location, call (907) 376-2790.