Is It Okay to Breastfeed at Night? How to Prevent Cavities in Babies

Breastfeeding at night is common—but did you know it can lead to cavities in babies? At NexGen Dentistry, we help parents across National City, Chula Vista, and San Diego understand how nighttime breastfeeding can affect baby teeth—and what to do to protect your child’s smile.

Can Nighttime Breastfeeding Cause Cavities? 

Yes. While breast milk is natural and nutritious, it still contains sugars. When babies fall asleep at the breast and the milk stays on their teeth for hours, it can lead to baby tooth decay, also called early childhood caries. This includes cavities in breastfed babies, even if they’ve never had a bottle.

How to Prevent Cavities If You Breastfeed at Night? 

Here are some infant oral care tips from our team at NexGen Dentistry:
• Wipe your baby’s gums or teeth with a soft, damp cloth after feeding—especially at night.
• Brush baby teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste once they appear.
• Avoid allowing your baby to nurse on demand throughout the night as they get older.
• Schedule a baby dental checkup near you by your child’s first birthday.
• Visit a Medi-Cal dentist for kids regularly to monitor oral development.

⸻

We Accept Medi-Cal and Offer Pediatric Dental Care

As a trusted provider of children’s dental care in San Diego, we accept Medi-Cal and provide gentle, expert care tailored for young patients. Whether your baby is teething or already has a few teeth, early care can prevent tooth decay in toddlers and build healthy habits.

NexGen Dentistry is here for families looking for a pediatric dentist in National City, Chula Vista, and nearby communities.

⸻

Book Your Child’s Visit at NexGen Dentistry

Looking for the best children’s dentist in San Diego who accepts Medi-Cal?
We’re proud to offer caring, affordable dental services for babies and young children.

Call today or request an appointment online to protect your child’s smile from cavities—even while breastfeeding at night.

‍