Baby teeth may not last a lifetime, but they do need care and attention. Here's some advice on protecting your toddler's teeth with careful food and drink choices.
Many foods and beverages are sugary and acidic - both of which are harmful to your toddler’s teeth. To reduce the risks:
- Do not offer your toddler sugary beverages like pop, punch, or slush drinks.
- Offer your toddler drinks from a regular cup, not a sip cup or bottle.
- Avoid letting your toddler drink milk or juice from a bottle at naptime or bedtime.
- Offer regular meals and snacks. Avoid grazing (eating and drinking all the time, including from a bottle or sip cup).
- If your toddler is thirsty, offer plain water unless it is a regular meal or snack time.
- Give hugs and attention for comfort, instead of food.
Bottles and Tooth Decay
Your toddler's teeth may decay if she often drinks from a bottle filled with anything other than water, especially during rest and sleep periods. There is also a risk if your toddler walks around with a bottle, drinking box, or sip cup and sips from it all day long. For more information, talk to your dentist or local public health office.
