My daughter breastfed until she was 18 months old, and she has had several
"bad" cavities to the point that she had to have 2 teeth capped because the
cavities were through the tooth to the bone.  I'm aware of some in the dental
field having the theory that stasis of the breastmilk in the oral cavity can
lead to dental caries just the same as when we go to bed without brushing our
teeth and therefore the bacteria left on our teeth can lead to caries.
However, she is now 6 years old, and guess what?  The dental caries
persist....she just had to have another one filled.  The dental world also
holds the theory that some people's saliva are more prone for dental caries
than others.  Neither of my children are "perfect" with their teeth brushing,
and I admit, I could do better.  But, funny, my son who is 10 has never had a
cavity.  Go figure!  But, my son breastfed for about 2-3 months, attended day
care, and experienced recurrent ear infections.  My daughter, as I said,
breastfed for 18 months, did not attend day care, and has been sick twice in
her lifetime.  I hardly know what she looks like sick.  So, I feel baby teeth
are given for a reason, kept for at least 5-7 years for a reason, and that I
made the right choice breastfeeding until my daughter self-weaned.  (I just
don't tell the dentist!)
Carol Chamblin, RN, MS, IBCLC
Breast 'N Baby Lactation Services
www.breastbabyproducts.com

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