Early Childhood Caries

Main causes and risk factors

Tooth decay develops when mouth bacteria use sugars from food and drinks to produce acids that weaken teeth.

Risk increases when your child:

• Has frequent sugary snacks or drinks
• Sips milk, juice or other sweet drinks throughout the day
• Goes to bed with a bottle containing milk or a sweet drink
• Uses a bottle or cup for long periods
• Has sugary foods or drinks between meals
• Needs help with brushing but does not receive it
• Has teeth that are difficult to clean or weaker than usual

Natural sugars in otherwise healthy foods and drinks such as milk, fruit and smoothies can also contribute to decay when consumed frequently or sipped over long periods.

Warning signs

Early decay may not cause symptoms. Look for:

• White, chalky or dull patches
• Yellow, brown or black marks
• Small holes or chipped areas
• Sensitivity or toothache
• Difficulty eating
• Disturbed sleep
• Swelling around a tooth

Contact us if you notice any changes or your child seems uncomfortable. Early treatment is usually simpler and can help prevent decay from worsening.

Prevention checklist

• Brush your child's teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Use a smear of toothpaste for children under three.
• Use a pea-sized amount for children aged three and over.
• Help your child brush until they can do it effectively themselves.
• Encourage them to spit out the toothpaste rather than rinsing.
• Offer water between meals.
• Keep sugary foods and drinks to mealtimes.
• Avoid sugary drinks and never add sugar or sweet drinks to a bottle.
• Do not put your child to bed with a bottle.
• Introduce a free-flow cup from around six months.
• Aim to move away from bottles by around 12 months.
• Offer a varied diet and limit frequent snacking.
• Arrange dental visits from the first tooth or by your child's first birthday.

Fluoride and dental visits

Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps teeth resist decay. We can recommend the most suitable toothpaste and advise whether your child may benefit from additional fluoride treatments, such as fluoride varnish.

Regular dental visits help us:

• Check your child's teeth and gums
• Identify early changes
• Provide personalised prevention advice
• Discuss treatment if decay is found
• Help keep your child comfortable

With effective daily brushing, sensible choices about food and drinks, and regular dental care, early childhood caries can often be prevented.