Baby bottle tooth decay will often be diagnosed by a dentist during a dental examination. However, it is important to note that by the time tooth decay is visibly obvious enough to be diagnosed, it may be too late to save the Teeth. Dental treatment and restoration (e.g., crowns) may be necessary. Sometimes, parents or caregivers identify abnormalities in a child’s teeth that require prompt consultation of a dentist or physician. Researchers are investigating new ways to detect early baby bottle tooth decay.

In severe cases, children may develop cavities that are so serious that they require pulling of the teeth.  This usually occurs before a child’s third birthday and is performed in a hospital operating room while the child is under general anesthesia.