13 Apr Why you should rethink the Sippy cup for kids
Whether your child enjoys drinking from their favourite sippy cup in between meals or to get ready for bedtime, you are most likely creating the perfect conditions for cavities to form on their primary teeth, reports Dr Minoo Ghamari.
- 1 in 4 children (aged 5 to 10) have untreated decay in their baby teeth (Australian Gov Health Department)
As a parent of a young child, you want to do everything you can to keep your little one healthy and happy. This includes taking care of their teeth, which can be especially challenging when they’re still using sippy cups. While these cups may seem harmless, they can actually be a major contributor to tooth decay in young children. Whether your child enjoys drinking from their favourite sippy cup in between meals or to get ready for bedtime, you are most likely creating the perfect conditions for cavities to form on their primary teeth.
Award winning principal dentist, Dr Minoo Ghamari (*Gorgeous Smiles Dental) has put together a list of all the tips and tricks you need to know about sippy cups and how to keep your children’s teeth squeaky clean.
- Avoid sugary drinks: Sugary drinks can cause bacteria to thrive on teeth, leading to cavities. Instead, Dr Minoo suggests swapping sugary drinks with water to avoid enamel erosion.
- Finish night bottles before lying down: Giving infants and toddlers night time drinks can increase the rate of bacterial growth due to decreased saliva flow during sleep. If your child struggles to sleep without a sippy cup, Dr Minoo recommends diluting the milky bottle with water over a two-week period until it’s just water.
- Don’t overuse toothpaste: Most children use too much toothpaste, causing increased ingestion of fluoride, which can make baby teeth more susceptible to decay. Children under three should use a smear of toothpaste similar to a grain of rice, while kids between three and six require only a pea-sized amount.
- Book your child’s first dental appointment: Cavities are far more common in children due to the weak enamel of baby teeth. Dr Minoo suggests organizing your baby’s first dental appointment when their tooth erupts or before their first birthday. In the meantime, parents should regularly monitor their child’s teeth, looking out for white spots or any abnormalities.
When it comes to your child’s dental health, every little bit helps. By following these simple tips, you can help prevent tooth decay and keep your little one’s smile bright and healthy. Remember to avoid sugary drinks, finish night bottles before lying down, use the right amount of toothpaste, and schedule your child’s first dental appointment early. With a little bit of extra care and attention, you can help set your child on the path to a lifetime of good dental health.
*Gorgeous Smiles Dental is Melbourne based.
See this article for more information on babies oral health
