08/01/2026
Many parents let their baby fall asleep with a milk bottle in the mouth — thinking it’s harmless or comforting. But what begins as a sweet bedtime habit often ends with severe tooth decay called Baby Bottle Caries or Nursing Bottle Caries.
When milk or juice stays pooled around a child’s teeth during sleep, bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugars. This produces acid that slowly erodes the enamel — especially on the upper front teeth, which are most exposed. Over time, these teeth turn brown, crumble, and may decay down to the roots, often before the child even turns two.
Pediatric dentists now call this a silent epidemic. Studies show that early childhood caries can affect a child’s nutrition, speech, and confidence — and even increase the risk of dental problems later in life. The decay is often rapid and painful, requiring extractions or crowns under general anesthesia.
The solution is simple yet powerful: Never put a baby to bed with a bottle containing milk, juice, or sweet liquids. Offer only plain water after brushing at night. Clean your baby’s teeth and gums daily, and schedule their first dental visit by age one. Early prevention saves not just teeth — it preserves smiles, confidence, and health.
