Who?

Early Childhood Tooth Decay (ECTD) affects toddlers and young children; preventing it starts when your child is born.

What?

ECTD is a rapid form of tooth decay which affects new baby teeth.  It requires immediate attention because it:

• is costly and difficult to treat;
• spreads to every tooth in the mouth if left untreated;
• can affect adult teeth forming under the gums; and 
• may cause orthodontic problems.

Where?

Upper front teeth are ususally the first to show signs of decay.
      NOTE:  Lift your child's upper lip once a month to check the upper front teeth
      for signs of decay.

Why?

ECTD is caused by:

• prolonged and freuent feedings;
• hidden sugars in formula, breast and cow's milk, fruit juices, and sweetened drinks; and
• giving baby a bottle or sippy cup, containing any of these liquids, in bed.

How . . . . can you prevent ECTD?

Clean your baby's mouth and teeth regularly with a washcloth, small piece of gauze, or infant toothbrush.

We recommend that you do not give your baby a bottle or sippy cup to take to bed;  if you do, it should contain only water.

What if . . . . you think your child has ECTD?

Take your child to a dentist.

What if . . . . . you can't afford a dentist?

Call us;  you may be eligible for financial assistance.

For more information, contact the Dental Program at the Peterborough County-City Health Unit. (705) 743-1000   TTY:  (705) 743-4700

The Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care website has a fact sheet titled, 'Are baby teeth important?  Oral health from birth to age five', which was developed as part of the Early Years initiative.  Click here for the Ministry's site and search 'oral health'.