Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Benefits of Breastfeeding


Benefits of Breastfeeding


We all know about breast milk’s nutritional health benefits. But what is surprising to many is how influential breastfeeding is to mouth and jaw development, oral health and home care habits

For breastfeeding, harder sucking is required to get at the milk than for drinking from an artificial nipple. According to lactation experts, breastfed babies develop better “U-shaped” arches which can reduce the need for orthodontic treatment later. Potential for snoring and sleep apnea (irregular breathing) is also decreased by this arch development.

Babies breastfed exclusively may also be at lower risk for developing cavities; there is no threat of “baby bottle tooth decay” because there is no bottle left in the mouth overnight.
As for long-term oral care habits, a study of Swedish, breastfed toddlers found that the children brushed more frequently, used fluoride toothpaste and ate less cavity-developing foods at night.

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