Gina;

it is my theory that GER is just part of the whole problem which contributes
to dental caries. reflux could be simply defined as a flap not growing /
maturing at the same rate as the rest of the esophagus. that is immaturity
in one part of the digestive system. the stomach not properly digesting
food - allergies - could also be an immaturity in the digestive systems
function thus pushing the food back up.

heres where theory ends - studies show that caries are an inability to fight
off bacteria in the mouth. the main defense is antibodies in saliva. saliva
maturity as evidenced by the development of certain components differs child
to child. (I've got the research papers on this part.)

theory again - so if my 9 month old has 3 month old saliva, then her mouth
is not prepared for the solids she might encounter. (not to mention that she
probably won't digest the food well either) so i share my water bottle with
my child and my nasty bacteria enter her mouth. they find great food ( the
solids) and no dfenses (immature saliva). they find teeth (baby is 9 months
old not 3 months) and they set up camp.

add a couple of things in as bonuses for these bacteria:
- stomach acid to help destroy/weaken the teeth
- hypoplasia (white line on front of teeth indicating fetal development
mistake)
- environmental allergies which mean the child breaths through their mouth
which acidifies the mouth (bacteria love an acid environment)
- any applications of medicines (tylenol, benedryl...) without complete
toothbrushing
- any carbs on the teeth for a length of time but especially higher GI foods
as the saliva breaks them down into glucose - bacteria's favorite meal.
- low saliva flow - kids who barely drool when teething - nothing to wash
the teeth with

you've got quite a nice place for bacteria to thrive. quite a combo and my
kids have it all too.


rachael barlow

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