Can a sippy cup increase cavity risk in kids?

Question: Can a sippy cup increase cavity risk in kids?

Yes, the use of sippy cups can increase kids' cavity risk when used for prolonged periods and with some types of drinks.

Most parents are extra careful to care for their children's teeth, just to find out at their young child's first dental visit that they already have cavities!

Tooth decay among young children is on the rise, and many experts believe that sippy cups containing sugary beverages, such as juice and soda is responsible. Because sippy cups are designed to prevent spills, they are often used by children long after they child learns how to hold and drink out of a regular cup.

"Sippy cups were created to help children transition from a bottle to drinking from a regular cup, but they're too often used for convenience," said American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry president Philip H. Hunke, DDS. "When kids sip for extended periods on sugared beverages, they're exposed to a higher risk of decay. Sippy cups should only contain water unless it's mealtime."

Dental care is important for children not only because of the chance for cavities but for possibly even more important, and long-reachng reasons. "Studies show that children with poor oral health perform worse in school and have less success later in life," says Hunke. "Establishing the right oral care habits early helps get kids headed on the path to a lifetime of good oral health."

But telling a parent that they shouldn't use a sippy cup after their toddler can sip from a regular cup --or that if they do, it should only contain water can sometimes be unrealistic advice. In today's world for most parents, it makes sense and is convenient to use a sippy cup, even for a child who is 3 or 4. So what can you do to care for your child's teeth and still protect your carpets, be able to travel, and keep your sanity? Well, here are just a few tips:

Don't put your child to bed/down for a nap with anything but water, (or water with xylitol).
--this will help prevent decay during the times when your child will tend to sip for prolonged periods, and when teeth are most vulnerable.

Avoid sugary drinks when possible.
--Juice is often fortified with vitamin C--but it is also full of sugar, and even diet soda is acidic and damaging to the teeth. If you give your child these juice or soda, have them drink them from a small regular cup in the kitchen. Only use milk or water in the sippy cups when possible.

Clean your child's teeth regularly.
--Brush your kid's teeth after meals, and even after drinks when possible. There is nothing that says you can't brush more than twice a day! If you can't brush because you are out of the house, or for another reason, try using Spiffies Tooth Wipes. They are safe, and are made with Xylitol, which can help prevent decay and promotes a healthy smile!

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