What causes it?

Baby bottle tooth decay, also called bottle syndrome, is a serious condition that can destroy your child's primary (baby) teeth. It occurs when teeth are frequently exposed to liquids that contain sugar, such as milk, formula or fruit juice.

Harmful bacteria feed on sugars

The liquid from the bottle pools around your child's teeth, providing food for decay-causing bacteria. The bacteria form acids that dissolve tooth enamel, causing decay. Any liquid containing sugar - even breast milk - can cause decay-producing acid attacks on your child's teeth.

Preventing baby bottle tooth decay

• Clean your child's teeth after each feeding
• Never give a bottle in bed, unless it contains only water
• Begin flossing your child's teeth daily once all primary teeth have come in
• Bring your child in to see us as soon as the first tooth erupts