Sippy cups are a versatile tool to aid children’s transition from bottles to regular cups but can also be dangerous for their dental health. As a parent, it is important for one to be aware of possible threats to one’s children and take steps to avoid them. Below, we will outline some tips recommended by Dentist in Bristol, Connecticut for sippy cup users to prevent tooth decay:
- Reduce Sippy Cup Usage: Limit the time your child spends with a sippy cup. A common practice of allowing children to keep it with them and drink it periodically during the day is harmful as it increases the amount of sugary beverages consumed.
- Proper Selection: Select a sippy cup that has a valve to help drink the liquid by sucking, meaning it blocks the process when let loose.
- Avoid Sugary Drinks: Refrain from offering your child juice or any other sugary liquid to drink from their cups. The latter makes your child’s teeth exposed to sugar for a longer time, leading to corrosion.
- Do Not Put Sugary Liquids in Sippy Cups At Night: Never put your child to sleep with a distant bottle of sippy cup containing milk or formula. The bacteria has sufficient time to interact with sugar, breaking it down, during the night.
- Schedule Regular Dental Checkups: Start scheduling regular checkups with your dentist starting on their first birthday or six months after you notice their first tooth. Regular visits enable your dentist to check on your child’s dental health cue early if necessary.
- Transition to Open Cups: Once your child grows and possesses the motor skills, use sippy cups to start using open cups. The open cups play a significant role mostly in the learning process, especially in the oral field; it teaches them how to drink.
- Monitor Sippy Cup Condition: Most sippy cups wear down with time, leading to cracks, chips, or damage to the plastic spout or valve. Regularly check the sippy cups to ensure there is no damage since damage can harbor bacteria and not hold up when spilled. If they have damage, replace them immediately.
- Lead by Example: You should demonstrate good oral hygiene habits as a parent to your child. They should see you brushing your teeth and drinking water throughout the day.
These tips will prevent tooth decay in your child and help you form good habits. You should ensure to maintain oral hygiene and keep your child’s dental visits spread apart. Dental health is general health, and it is never too late to start habits.
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