Sippy cups are a great tool for helping your child get used to drinking on their own and serve as a stepping stool to help your child begin using regular cups. However, sippy cups can also contribute to baby bottle tooth decay and other dental problems. Our dentist and team offer suggestions on how to properly use sippy cups so that your child can keep their teeth and smile healthy. To learn more about sippy cups in Weslaco, Texas, and schedule a consultation with Dr. Trent Savage, call Agua Dental today at 956-702-2401.
Most children start using sippy cups as soon as they are able to hold a cup. Once this occurs, it is important that you make sure not to expose your child’s teeth to too much sugar. As sippy cups encourage your child to keep sweetened liquids in their mouth they increase the risk that your child’s tooth enamel will become weakened and susceptible to cavities. We strongly recommend that you fill the sippy cup with water, and that you avoid providing your child with liquids such as milk, formula, fruit juice, soda or other liquids containing sugar.
When you bring your child to our office, our dentist and team will review information on the best ways to take care of your child’s teeth, including the most appropriate ways to use sippy cups. We recommend that you schedule your child’s first dental appointment as soon as their first tooth erupts, or no later than their first birthday. By bringing your child in early we can check for signs of decay or other problems, monitor your child’s oral growth and development, and ensure that you have all the tools and knowledge you need to keep your child’s mouth healthy.
For more information about sippy cups and early oral health care, contact our office today!