You and your child are unique. The decision to breastfeed is very personal and special. Exercising such practice not only builds a distinct bond between two but also decreases child’s risk to many illness. Breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition to a child; it has antibodies that help to fight against various bacteria’s and virus. It is recommended to at least breastfeed a child minimum 6 months. Breastfeeding also has effects on oral health on child.
Let us see some of the benefits of breastfeeding on your child’s oral health:
Provides necessary nutrients:
Breastfeeding a child delivers essential nutrients to them which are necessary for healthy gums and teeth. It contains proteins, fatty acids and vitamins required for oral and overall health.
Helps in teeth alignment:
The mechanism is different for both bottle-feeding and breastfeeding. Many studies suggest that there are less likely chances of having crowded teeth in babies who breastfeed till 6 months of their age. There are less chances of having overbite, cross bites or open bites. This can reduce the risk of bite alignment with the growth of child. On the other if baby is breastfeeding and also have some habits as pacifier sucking, thumb sucking and genetics can also affect the alignment.
Decreases the chances of tooth decay:
A child who bottle-feeds is more prone to develop caries than with breastfeeding. Breast milk contains antibodies that fight against the harmful bacteria’s in the oral cavity. This antibody effect reduces the chances of tooth decay in infants.
Mothers should not neglect their oral hygiene while focusing on the new born. It is important to prevent cavities, as bacteria’s can be transferred from a parent to child.
Effect on jawbone and muscles:
Breastfeeding also has effect on facial muscles and jaw bones. Feeding through a bottle leads to weak movements of facial muscles, tongue and lips as it requires less effort in sucking. On the other hand, breastfeeding requires more and continuous effort with sucking which in growth and more movement of facial muscles.
As for every mother a child’s health is first priority but with this motherhood responsibility it is important to take care of own overall health. If you still have any queries related breastfeeding and oral health of your child, contact our dentists at Dr. Sachdeva’s Dental Institute to learn more about it.
