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Early Childhood Caries (ECC), or previously known as “bottle decay” is a phenomenon still poorly understood, but pretty widespread. Many parents notice their 2-4 year olds developing widespread cavities on their front teeth, in spite of the fact that they may be extremely cautious with their diet and oral hygiene. In the past it was associated with babies sucking on their formula milk bottle in bed and going to sleep with it, thus creating an environment for the decay-causing bacteria to thrive on the pooled and fermenting milk on the surface of their teeth. Nowadays there seem to be other aggravating factors, and thorough attention has to be given by parents to keep the teeth clean from the bacteria that cause this condition.

Diet, proper oral hygiene, Xylitol gels, some homeopathic remedies, and proactive dentistry can all be used to prevent or slow down this condition.

Early Childhood Caries Facts