Parents have a role to play in ensuring children do not need dental work as they grow up, an expert has suggested.
Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, explained kids only develop a sweet tooth if they are given too many sugary drinks and snacks.
In order to avoid the chances of babies developing cavities in the future, he recommended choosing savoury foods such as pasta, cheese and vegetables.
And if drinks are taken between meals Dr Carter recommended water or milk, noting: "It is the frequency of sugary or acidic foods and drinks that causes the main problem."
The expert also advised parents that weaning babies from the bottle early can help ensure oral health problems do not develop.
Last week, a study conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois indicated the 'window of infectivity' associated with dental cavities in infants may occur much earlier than previously thought - making it important to prioritise oral health even in toothless babies.
© Adfero Ltd
Private dentistry news: 24 August 2011
