Baby Bottles, Pacifiers, and Thumb-Sucking Can Ruin Your Baby's Teeth

Babies suck on things; it's their natural and physiological reflex. They find comfort in bringing their fingers, pacifiers or any object within reach inside their mouth. Though it may be a normal aspect of their development, sucking could create a problem for your baby.

Frequent and long-term sucking can be dangerous, especially if it develops into a habit. Thumb-sucking, in particular, can distort the teeth, causing them to slant or tilt, while the jaws could get misaligned. In addition, pacifiers can alter the mouth. As much as possible, put a stop to thumb-sucking, especially if it goes beyond the period for its physiological need. As for baby bottles and pacifiers, there are a couple of things that you need to consider.

For safety precautions, look for pacifiers that are made in one piece. Avoid those with easily detachable parts; there is a potential danger of being swallowed if it breaks into smaller parts. Never attach the pacifier to a string and place it on your child's neck, to avoid accidental strangulation.

Cavity-causing bacteria thrive on excess food materials, so always clean the pacifier and baby bottle after every use. Wash them with warm water to eliminate germs. Never share your baby's bottle or pacifier with another baby since bacteria can be passed on.

It is important to keep your baby's teeth healthy, now and even after babyhood, since most will remain until adolescence or even until adulthood. At the slightest detection of tooth decay, always consult a dentist for treatment.

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Bernard L. Hoffman, III, DDS

General, Implant and Restorative Dentistry

My father was a dentist and I enjoyed the lifestyle that dentistry provided me as a child. I enjoy the fact that dentistry is such a challenge...

Ana Paula Hoffman, DDS, MSc, PhD

General, Children and Cosmetic Dentistry

I always liked the medical field, but I didn't want to be a physician. Dentistry was the right profession, where I could help patients, providing them...

Patient Reviews

I wished I had tried this dentist office sooner. Everyone there are very professional and knowledgeable. I was looking for a new dentist and I found Dr. Ana and I could not be more satisfied. My confidence in her was well placed. I would hope that every dentist was this good. I had a problem with my teeth for awhile. Two others dentists did not mention it to me but she was able to see what my problem was right away. It is now fixed and I couldn’t be more pleased with the work she did.

Dr. Ana is a fabulous dentist. Recently I had extensive dental work on my front teeth. Prior to the start of work she took an impression and made a temporary piece that looked natural. I am extremely happy with the final result. She is meticulous and caring, a great combination. The office staff is professional and courteous. I have been a patient at Pennington Family Dentistry for over 30 years.

Great staff! Been here a couple times already and they are efficient and they take the time to get to know you. Spent years in a large practice before this but never got that personal experience you want with a doctor or dentist. Would highly recommend this practice.

Professional friendly staff. Always feel comfortable and welcomed here. Dr. Bernie treat patients with attentive care and respect. Michele is so helpful and kind. Charissa is the best hygienist and her injections are the least painful ever.

I have been a patient of Pennington Family Dentistry for over 40 years and cannot say enough complimentary things about the professionalism of the entire staff. From the front desk to the hygienist to the doctors, each delivers superb and comfortable care. I highly recommend PFD to all those who seek dental care.

My wife and I have each visited PFD several times now, and we both have been consistently impressed with each of the staff, who have all been very friendly, knowledgeable and thorough.

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