How does breast feeding affect oral health? – Your Local Burpengary Dentist Explains

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Breastfeeding can have both positive and negative effects on oral health, depending on various factors such as breastfeeding technique, frequency, and duration. Here’s how breastfeeding can impact oral health:

Positive Effects:

Development of Proper Oral Muscles: Breastfeeding requires babies to use their tongue and facial muscles in a coordinated manner, which can help in the development of proper oral muscles and alignment of the jaw.

Reduced Risk of Malocclusion: Breastfed babies are less likely to develop malocclusions (bite misalignments) such as overbites or underbites compared to bottle-fed babies. This is because breastfeeding promotes better oral muscle coordination.

Reduced Risk of Tooth Decay: Breast milk is less likely to promote tooth decay compared to formula milk or sugary drinks. This is because breast milk contains natural sugars and has a lower acid content.

Negative Effects:

Nipple Confusion: Introducing bottles or pacifiers too early in a breastfed baby’s life may lead to nipple confusion, making it more challenging for the baby to latch correctly during breastfeeding. This can affect oral development and potentially lead to breastfeeding difficulties.

Breastfeeding at Night: Extended nighttime breastfeeding without proper oral hygiene can potentially lead to a higher risk of tooth decay in infants. Breast milk, like other liquids, can pool in the baby’s mouth if not swallowed, potentially exposing the teeth to sugars for prolonged periods.

Maternal Diet: A mother’s diet can impact the quality of breast milk. High sugar diets can lead to breast milk with higher sugar content, which may contribute to tooth decay if proper oral hygiene is not maintained in the baby.

To promote good oral health during breastfeeding:

Proper Latching: Ensure that your baby latches correctly during breastfeeding to promote proper oral development and prevent nipple confusion.

Oral Hygiene: Wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after each feeding to remove any residual milk.

Avoid Prolonged Nighttime Feeding: Limit prolonged nighttime feedings, and if your baby falls asleep while breastfeeding, try to gently remove them from the breast to avoid prolonged exposure to milk in the mouth.

Maternal Diet: Maintain a healthy diet with limited sugary snacks and drinks to ensure your breast milk is not high in sugar content.

Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular dental checkups for your child, starting around their first birthday, to monitor oral health and receive guidance from a paediatric dentist.

In summary, while breastfeeding offers several oral health benefits, it’s essential to maintain proper breastfeeding techniques and oral hygiene practices to minimize any potential negative effects and support your baby’s oral development. Consulting with a paediatric dentist or healthcare provider can also provide valuable guidance on maintaining your baby’s oral health while breastfeeding. To book your appointment today, call us on 07 3888 9125 or book online.