Studies have proven that breast milk protects milk teeth from decay. On the other hand formula may play a role in tooth decay. Antibodies in breast milk may help to prevent bacterial growth, especially the bacteria that causes tooth decay (streptococcus mutans). A protein found in breast milk actually kills this bacteria. Breast milk also contains lactose compared to sucrose found in formula. The tooth decay bacteria may not be able to use lactose as readily as the sucrose found in breast milk. Research has suggested that some formulas lead to dissolving of tooth enamel, reduces PH causing favorable growth environment to those bacteria causing decay. Breastfeeding is also different to bottle feeding. While a baby is nursing, the milk does not pool against the teeth, it goes to the back of the mouth to the throat to stimulate swallowing and milk only flows when baby is actively sucking. That is why it is so bad for baby to fall asleep with a bottle in the mouth, the milk pools around the teeth and lead to decay. Medical aids these days do not cover dental procedures for babies as they see tooth decay as a preventable condition. So mommies, please brush those teethies and no sleeping with bottles in the mouth :)
