Nursing habits and dental decay in infants: "nursing bottle caries"

Abstract

The decay-producing capabilities of certain foods can be influenced by eating habits. When a habit of frequent nocturnal bottle or breast feeding is maintained beyond a year of age, the potential for gross dental decay in very young children is established. Bovine milk, milk formulas and human breast milk have all been implicated in the condition of "nursing bottle caries," because of their lactose content. Additional sweeteners in the nursing bottle, the use of fruit juices or the use of honey-dipped pacifiers can also cause "nursing bottle caries." "Nursing bottle caries" can be prevented through a timely educational program to new parents. Prevention is particularly applicable in young children, since a healthy oral condition promotes good nutrition, a healthy state and normal growth. Both the American Dental Association and the American Society of Dentistry for Children have pamphlets explaining "nursing bottle caries," which are available for distribution to the public.