This story was written in partnership with Lise Luppens and Randi Leanne Parsons. In this story we use the term "breastfeeding". We recognize that families may also use terms such as "nursing", "chestfeeding", and "body feeding". See more information at TransCare BC.
The Canadian Dental Association recognizes breastfeeding as an effective preventive health measure. It promotes healthy dental development by protecting against infections and misaligned teeth. As a registered dental hygienist and Northern Health’s (NH) regional lead for dental health, I support families on their breastfeeding journey by providing guidance about maintaining their child’s oral health. This story focuses on older babies and toddlers, once their teeth begin to erupt.
Reasons for tooth decay
It is important to know that children can develop tooth decay as soon as their first tooth erupts. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that feed on the sugars and starches in our mouths. If the bacteria are not removed daily, they will begin to produce acid that wears away at the hard structure of our teeth called enamel. This can result in a hole in the tooth also known as tooth decay (a cavity).
Once the bacteria that causes tooth decay enters a child's mouth, many other factors can contribute to tooth decay like how our teeth align, eating habits, brushing routines, and access to dental care. The following questions provide essential information that help dental professionals educate families to care for their child’s oral health:
- Is there a family history of tooth decay for parents, caregivers, or siblings?
- What types of food and drink is the child offered daily? Are they high in sugar?
- What are the family’s oral hygiene practices?
- Are they using fluoride toothpaste when brushing their child’s teeth?
- Does the family have a dentist?
Educating parents and caregivers
As your baby grows, breastfeeding continues to be a vital part of their oral and overall health. Some parents might be concerned that breastfeeding increases the chance of their child developing tooth decay. It may be helpful to know that breastfeeding alone does not cause tooth decay. Many children who nurse beyond infancy grow up with healthy teeth. We need to consider the big picture and the many factors that contribute to tooth decay.
As dental professionals, we advise families to visit a dentist within six months after the first tooth erupts, or by one year of age. We also educate families of toddlers to:
- Brush their child’s teeth both in the morning and at night using a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste
- When brushing, lift the lip and move the cheeks to check for new teeth and signs of tooth decay
- Aim to offer three meals and two to three planned, sit-down snacks per day
- Offer water for thirst, in an open cup
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Discontinue use of any bottles, starting at 12 months and aiming to complete the transition by 18 months
If a child breastfeeds during the night, parents can aim to unlatch them before they fall back to sleep. This can help prevent the breast milk from staying in their mouth. Parents can also wipe their mouth and teeth with a clean, damp cloth after feeding, when possible.
Learn more
The NH Dental Health Program for children offers services for children aged newborn to six years old. We're here to support families and provide resources to help care for children's oral health. It’s rewarding for our team to help lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Here are additional resources to explore:
- Nursing older babies and toddlers - Northern Health (click on the collapsible grouping titled, "Dental health and breastfeeding")
- Oral development and dental caries in the breastfed baby - La Leche League Canada
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