Early childhood caries (ECC), also called “baby bottle tooth decay,” is a major dental problem that kids have. It mostly affects kids between the ages of 6 and 8. This is the most common long-term illness in kids this age, and it makes them hurt, get infections, and have trouble eating.
ECC can even cause people to lose their teeth in the worst cases. Make an appointment with a reputable dental practice in Southfield right away if you are worried about your child’s oral health.
What causes ECC?
Plaque that builds up on the teeth leads to ECC. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth when sugary foods and drinks are not properly flushed out. Plaque has bacteria that eat sugar and make acid. This acid attacks tooth enamel and causes cavities.
Risk factors for ECC.
Several things can make a child more likely to develop ECC:
- Having sweet foods or drinks often, especially right before bed.
- Bad oral health habits, like not brushing your teeth enough.
- Sharing cups or spoons with someone who has cavities.
- Dry mouth.
- Certain medical conditions.
The signs and symptoms of ECC.
Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is a disease that has mild symptoms at first. There are a few of these: white spots (chalky white areas on the tooth surface that show enamel demineralization) and being sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
It is possible for the white spots to turn brown or black as the decay continues. The most obvious sign is caries, which are holes or cavities in the teeth that can be seen. Pain can happen either when you are not eating or biting or when you are.
In the worst cases, an infection can make the area around the tooth swell and turn red. Bad breath can be caused by rotting teeth that give off a bad smell. Pain and discomfort can also make it hard to eat, which can affect nutrition.
Tooth decay, which is very bad, can sometimes make it hard for a child to speak clearly. Early detection is very important for treatment to work and to stop more problems from happening.
How to prevent ECC.
The good news is that you can avoid getting ECC. Here are some ways to keep your child from getting ECC:
- From the time the first tooth comes in, you should brush your child’s teeth every day.
- When you brush their teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a little fluoride toothpaste.
- Every day, brush your child’s teeth for two minutes each time. Your kid can brush their teeth with you until they are about eight years old.
- When your child has two teeth that touch, floss their teeth every day.
- Do not let your child eat or drink too many sugary things. Instead, give them milk or water.
- Do not give your kid a bottle of milk, juice, or formula to sleep with.
- Check up and clean your child’s teeth at the dentist’s office every six months. The dentist can look for caries and do other things to keep them from happening, like fluoride treatments and caps.
- Brush and floss your teeth every day to set a good example for your child.
- Make it fun and enjoyable for your child to brush their teeth.
If you are worried about your child’s oral health, talk to their dentist right away.
Early detection and treatment is crucial.
It is very important to find and treat Early Childhood Caries (ECC) in children as soon as possible. White spots on the teeth or being sensitive to hot or cold foods are signs.
Fillings, crowns, or tooth extractions may be needed for treatment, but if the problem is found early, more extensive treatments are less likely to be needed. ECC is a dangerous disease that can be avoided.
These tips can help parents keep their kids’ smiles healthy and keep them from getting ECC. Talk to their doctor if they have any worries.
