Can breastfeeding at night cause tooth decay?

The Relationship Between Nighttime Breastfeeding and Tooth Decay
Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits for infants, but concerns about its potential link to tooth decay, particularly during nighttime feeds, have sparked debate among parents and health professionals alike. Understanding this relationship requires a closer look at the evidence and expert opinions surrounding the issue.
Breastfeeding and Tooth Decay: The Evidence
Research indicates that breastfeeding, in general, does not directly cause tooth decay. A comprehensive review of studies suggests that breastfeeding, including nighttime feeds, is not a significant risk factor for dental caries in infants and young children. For instance, a study highlighted by KellyMom.com asserts that breastfeeding does not lead to tooth decay, emphasizing that the antibodies present in breast milk can actually help combat the bacteria responsible for dental issues.
However, the narrative shifts slightly when considering the age of the child and the context of feeding. Some experts note that while breastfeeding is beneficial, there may be a potential risk for tooth decay if nighttime breastfeeding continues beyond 12 months, particularly if the child is allowed to fall asleep with milk in their mouth. This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as “nursing caries,” can occur when sugars from breast milk linger on the teeth overnight, creating an environment conducive to decay.
The Role of Age and Oral Hygiene
The risk of developing early childhood caries (ECC) appears to increase when breastfeeding extends into the toddler years, especially after 18 months. A study published in a medical journal concluded that nighttime breastfeeding at this age could be a contributing factor to ECC, particularly if proper oral hygiene practices are not followed. This highlights the importance of maintaining good dental care, such as brushing teeth before bedtime, to mitigate any potential risks associated with nighttime feeds.
Expert Opinions and Parental Practices
Despite some concerns, many pediatric dentists and lactation consultants argue that the benefits of breastfeeding far outweigh the risks, especially when mothers are mindful of their child’s oral hygiene. Dr. Torney, for example, found no correlation between breastfeeding patterns—such as feeding to sleep or frequent night feeds—and the onset of dental caries in children under two years of age. This perspective is echoed by the Australian Breastfeeding Association, which acknowledges that while frequent nighttime breastfeeding has been linked to increased decay risk, the overall evidence remains inconclusive.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach
In summary, while there is some evidence suggesting that prolonged nighttime breastfeeding beyond infancy may contribute to tooth decay, particularly if oral hygiene is neglected, the consensus among many health professionals is that breastfeeding itself is not a primary cause of dental issues. Parents are encouraged to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including brushing their child’s teeth regularly, to minimize any risks associated with nighttime feeds. Ultimately, the decision to breastfeed at night should be made with consideration of both the benefits of breastfeeding and the importance of dental care as the child grows.

When should I stop breastfeeding at night?

There’s no hurry to phase out night feeds. You can choose what works best for you and your child. For breastfed children, night weaning might be an option from 12 months. For formula-fed children, you can consider phasing out night feeds from 6 months.

Does breastfeeding during the night cause tooth decay?

Dr. Torney found no correlation between the onset of dental caries under two years of age and breastfeeding patterns such as feeding to sleep, frequent night feeds, etc. In his opinion, under normal circumstances, the antibodies in breastmilk counteract the mouth bacteria which cause tooth decay.

Are teeth more sensitive when breastfeeding?

Increased Incidence of Teeth Clenching or Grinding – The stress of being a new mother and the changes in your sleep patterns make these types of sleep habits more likely to occur. Many patients develop headaches, teeth sensitivity, and popping sounds in the jaw joints during periods of stress.

Why we should not breastfeed while sleeping?

If you fall asleep while feeding baby in your bed, place them on their back in a separate sleep area made for babies as soon as you wake up. Evidence shows that the longer a parent and baby share the same bed, the greater the risk for sleep-related infant deaths.

Does prolonged breastfeeding affect teeth?

A longer duration of full breastfeeding can protect against early childhood caries. However, any breastfeeding (with or without formula milk) for ≥ 18 months increases the caries prevalence.

Is it bad to breastfeed at night?

Not only is it normal for a breastfed baby to night nurse, but it is also beneficial. This is almost completely lost on our society that is used to bottle feeding patterns. Studies show that babies who sleep long stretches at night are at increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Why do I have so many cavities after pregnancy?

Pregnancy and Cavities
Hormonal changes – As your hormones fluctuate, it can increase the risk of gum disease. And gum infection can promote tooth decay and lead to more cavities. Increased eating – Some women eat more during pregnancy. Frequent eating or snacking increases bacteria on teeth and promotes decay.

How can I prevent tooth decay while breastfeeding?

Cavity prevention is especially crucial for moms, as even the simple act of sharing a spoon with could transfer that bacteria into your baby’s mouth. “It’s really important to do the basics: Brush twice a day, floss once a day. See your ADA dentist regularly,” she says.

What are the consequences of breastfeeding for too long?

As long as a child receives adequate complementary foods, there are no medical drawbacks to breastfeeding beyond the age of 1 year. However, people may face obstacles to nursing, especially if they do not have family or social support.

Does milk at night cause tooth decay?

Once your baby’s teeth start to come through, falling asleep with a bottle can lead to tooth decay. The sugar in milk sitting on the teeth all night turn into acids, which can result in an erosion of the enamel.