"My Child Was Born with Cavities!"

• As pediatric dentists, one surprising (but common) concern we often hear from new moms is:
“My child already had black spots or cavities on their teeth when they came in!” It can be shocking and even heartbreaking to see those tiny pearly whites come in with stains or decay. But the good news is: you’re not alone, and it can be treated!
  
  Can a Baby Be Born with Cavities?
  Technically, babies aren’t born with cavities, but some can show signs of tooth decay very early, even when their first teeth start erupting. This is often called Early Childhood Caries (ECC) or nursing caries.
  
  So Why Does It Happen So Early?
  There are a few reasons your little one may develop early cavities:
  1. Frequent Bottle-Feeding or Breastfeeding at Night
  If milk or formula pools around the teeth (especially while sleeping), bacteria feed on the sugars and produce acid that weakens the enamel.
  2. Sweetened Pacifiers or Early Sugar Exposure
  Dipping pacifiers in honey or giving sugary liquids too early can contribute to decay.
  3. Transfer of Bacteria from Parents
  Sharing spoons or cleaning pacifiers with your mouth can transfer cavity-causing bacteria from your saliva to your baby’s mouth.
  4. Weak Enamel Formation
  Some children naturally have thinner or weaker enamel due to genetic or prenatal factors, which makes them more vulnerable.
  
  What Does It Look Like?
  • White chalky spots near the gumline
  • Yellow or brown discoloration
  • Visible black pits or holes
  • Fussiness or pain while feeding
  
  What You Can Do as a Parent:
  Start Oral Care Early
  Even before teeth appear, clean your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth.
  Once teeth erupt, use a rice-grain amount of fluoride toothpaste with a soft brush.
  Avoid Prolonged Night Feeding
  Especially avoid leaving bottles in bed.
  Try to gently clean teeth/gums even after nighttime feeds.
  First Dental Visit by Age 1
  Early visits help us prevent problems before they start and guide you with personalized care.
  Ask About Fluoride or Dental Varnish
  In certain cases, applying fluoride can help strengthen enamel and prevent early decay.
  
  The Takeaway
  You’re not a “bad mom” — early cavities can happen even when you're doing your best. The key is early detection, good habits, and regular checkups.
  At Smile Safari Dental Clinic, we specialize in making dental visits fun and stress-free for kids and parents. If you’ve noticed dark spots on your baby’s teeth or just want to make sure everything’s okay, we’re here to help with a gentle touch and lots of love.
  
  Got questions or concerns? Book your baby's first dental visit today — it’s never too early to build a healthy smile!
  

"My Child Was Born with Cavities!" — Here's What You Need to Know