Breastfeeding & Cavities: What Nursing Moms Need to Know! Dental Health

Breastfeeding has long been implicated in causing cavities in children. Is it a true cause of cavities? Recent research shows that breastfeeding until age 12 months is not associated with a higher risk of cavities. Actually, it was shown to have a preventive effect through Baby’s first year!

Breast milk has not been proven to cause cavities, even in toddlers over age 1. It has been suggested that breastfeeding is a risk factor for cavities in toddlers, but the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh this risk. Here's what to do to decrease a nursling’s cavity risk: 

• Brush the teeth with non-fluoride toothpaste twice a day, especially before bed.

• Watch for changes in color of the teeth (bright white, yellow, brown).

• Take your child to a breastfeeding-friendly dentist at age 1.

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