Is breastfeeding good for babies teeth?

The Impact of Breastfeeding on Baby’s Dental Health
Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits for both infants and mothers, but its influence on dental health is a topic that deserves careful consideration. As parents navigate the early stages of their child’s life, understanding how breastfeeding affects dental development can help them make informed choices.
Breastfeeding and Tooth Decay
One of the most significant concerns regarding breastfeeding and dental health is the potential for tooth decay. However, research indicates that breastfeeding does not inherently cause tooth decay. In fact, studies have shown that breastfeeding can actually lower the risk of cavities in infants. This is largely because breast milk contains antibodies and other components that help protect against infections, including those that can lead to dental issues.
Moreover, breastfeeding promotes a natural oral environment. The act of breastfeeding encourages proper jaw development and alignment, which can contribute to healthier teeth as the child grows. When a baby breastfeeds, their tongue covers the lower gums and teeth, which can help prevent decay that might occur from prolonged exposure to sugary substances, a common concern with bottle-feeding.
Teething and Breastfeeding
As babies begin to teethe, typically between four to seven months, some parents may worry about how this will affect breastfeeding. Teething can cause discomfort, leading to changes in a baby’s latch or feeding behavior. However, breastfeeding can actually provide comfort during this challenging time. The soothing nature of breastfeeding can help alleviate some of the pain associated with teething .
It’s important for breastfeeding parents to maintain a good latch, as this not only ensures effective feeding but also minimizes the likelihood of biting. When a baby latches correctly, their tongue naturally covers their lower teeth, reducing the risk of any accidental bites during nursing.
Long-Term Benefits
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least the first year of life, alongside the introduction of solid foods around six months. This extended period of breastfeeding can have lasting benefits for dental health. Children who are breastfed tend to have better oral health outcomes, including lower rates of malocclusion (misalignment of teeth) and fewer cavities later in childhood.
In summary, breastfeeding is not only beneficial for a baby’s overall health but also plays a crucial role in promoting good dental health. By supporting proper jaw development, reducing the risk of tooth decay, and providing comfort during teething, breastfeeding emerges as a vital component of early childhood care. As parents weigh their options, the evidence strongly supports the continuation of breastfeeding as a positive choice for both health and dental development.

Does breastfeeding lead to healthier teeth and gums?

Current evidence suggests that breastfeeding up to 12 months of age is associated with a decreased risk of tooth decay. some evidence that the breastfeeding along with excess sugars in food may cause tooth decay.

Does breastfeeding make teething feel better?

For some little teethers, breastfeeding will soothe the pain and they’ll want to nurse all day, almost back to the newborn days. For others, the act of sucking may make the gums hurt more. Sometimes, giving them a teething aid like a frozen washcloth or silicone teether can help calm them enough for a feeding.

When to stop breastfeeding?

Breastmilk or infant formula should be your baby’s main source of nutrition for around the first year of life. Health professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with a gradual introduction of appropriate foods in the second 6 months and ongoing breastfeeding for 2 years or beyond.

Do breastfed babies teeth easier?

Research shows breastfeeding helps babies’ teeth
Breastfeeding helps babies teeth develop better alignment. Research found that babies breast fed exclusively for six months were less likely to have open bites, crossbites, or overbites than babies breast fed for less time or also fed by bottle.

Are breastfed babies less likely to need braces?

Simply breastfeeding a baby is not a guaranteed way to avoid braces later in life, but recent studies have revealed that when an infant is only breastfed for the first six months, they are less likely to develop teeth alignment issues, such as a cross bite, over bite, or open bite.

What if my baby is 10 months and still no teeth?

A slight delay usually isn’t a cause for concern. Possible causes of delayed baby teething include premature birth, low birth weight, poor nutrition, or genetics. Syndromes, developmental or endocrine disorders might also delay tooth eruption. If your child has no baby teeth by 12 months, bring them to the dentist.

Can breastfeeding cause tooth decay in mother?

The risk of dental problems does not go away entirely once the baby is born. Breastfeeding moms are at a higher risk for tooth decay if they don’t stay hydrated or slack on brushing and flossing.

Does breastmilk prevent cavities?

Breastfeeding until one year of age is not associated with an increase in caries; it can even offer protection compared to formula feeding. However, recent studies have observed that in babies who are breastfed for more than 12 months, the risk of caries is increased.

Does it take longer for breastfed babies to get teeth?

However, Folayan et al., [12] and Oziegbe et al., [10] did not find any link between teeth eruption timings and the durations of breastfeeding.

What age is not good for braces?

Regardless of your age, you are never too old for orthodontic treatment. Age is rarely a deciding factor for orthodontic treatment. While your orthodontist will consider many variables when developing your customized treatment plan, it can be as successful for adults as it is for adolescents.