Why bedtime bottles matter
During sleep, less saliva washes over the teeth, so whatever is in the bottle stays on them longer. The same is true of a sippy cup carried around all day.
Wipe and brush
Wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, clean cloth after feedings. Once the first tooth comes in, brush twice a day with a soft, small brush, and ask your dentist or doctor about toothpaste for children under 2.
Moving to a cup
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry encourages moving from bottle to cup around the first birthday. Keep milk and juice to mealtimes, and let water be the drink in between.
Ask at the first visit
The first dental visit, by the first birthday, is a good time to talk through feeding, night wakings and cups. Bring your questions.
