Healthy teeth start with good nutrition, adequate fluids and proper care of your teeth. Proper care of children's teeth includes brushing, flossing and monitoring what goes into children's bottles and sippy cups.
Early childhood cavities generally are a result of inappropriate feeding, including prolonged use of bottles or sippy cups with a sweetened beverage such as fruit drinks, soft drinks and fruit juice.
Early childhood cavities not only increase the need for dental care, but they also can compromise eating. Decayed teeth often are painful which can make chewing difficult and may lead to poor food choices.
Parents and caregivers: The best way to prevent early childhood cavities is by educating yourselves and your children on the importance of healthy nutrition and healthy teeth.