Is Breast-feeding Better than Bottle-feeding in Preventing Early Childhood Cavities?
Many experts recommend breast-feeding over bottle-feeding for the overall health of your child. However, breast-feeding can lead to Early Childhood Cavities in the same way that bottle-feeding can. To prevent Early Childhood Cavities: • Avoid overnight feeding, such as bringing baby to bed with you and allowing him/her to nurse at will. Milk can “pool” in the child’s mouth and cause acid to form continuously throughout the night. This acid leads to decay. • Avoid letting baby walk around with a bottle. • The American Dental Association recommends that you encourage your child to drink from a cup by his or her first birthday. Is it Okay if My Child Sucks his or her Thumb? Thumbsucking is normal for infants; most stop on their own by age 2. • If your child sucks his or her thumb beyond age 2, try to discourage it by age 4. • Thumbsucking beyond age 4 can lead to crooked, crowded teeth and/or bite problems. Is it Okay For My Baby to Use a Pacifier? Yes, but don’t dip it in sugar, honey, o
