Get Smart About Sippy Cups

Sippy cups are as much a part of toddlerhood as diapers and teddy bears. Designed with a spill-proof lid and spout, they help make the transition from bottle or breastfeeding to cup drinking much less messy. But while they’re a helpful tool, sippy cups can also pose risks to your child’s dental health if not used properly.

What’s the Problem?

Just like baby bottles, sippy cups can contribute to tooth decay when used frequently, especially if they’re filled with sugary drinks like juice or milk. The constant sipping bathes your child’s teeth in sugar and acid, which can wear down enamel and lead to early childhood cavities. That’s why the American Dental Association recommends introducing a regular cup by your child’s first birthday.

Choosing the Right Sippy Cup

Picking the right cup can help protect your child’s smile. Many sippy cups on the market are labeled “no-spill,” thanks to a valve that prevents leaking. However, these valves force your child to suck, similar to a bottle, instead of learning to sip, which prolongs the risk of baby bottle tooth decay.

Look for sippy cups without valves, ideally with a slotted spout that encourages sipping, not sucking. A design with two handles makes it easier for tiny hands to hold and maneuver. Every child is different, so don’t be afraid to try a few options until you find one that works for your little one.

Sipping With Success: Healthy Habits

Sippy cups are meant to be temporary training tools, not long-term drinkware. Here are a few ways to use them wisely:

• Limit use to meals and snacks. When your child eats, saliva production increases, helping rinse the mouth and neutralize acids.

• Avoid “on-the-go” sipping. Walking around with a sugary drink all day exposes baby teeth to constant sugar, increasing the risk of decay, and spills!

• Clean the cup thoroughly after each use. Leftover liquids can trap bacteria and mold in tight spaces.

• Offer only water between meals. Save milk or juice for mealtimes. Water keeps your child hydrated without coating their teeth in sugar.

• Skip the sippy if you can. Some parents go straight from bottle to open cup. Yes, it’s messier, but it’s great for developing oral habits and coordination.

Don’t Forget the Dentist

Your child’s first dental visit should be scheduled when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday,  whichever comes first. Your dentist can offer guidance on healthy dental habits, cup transitions, and how to best protect your child’s developing smile.

A little sippy cup savvy goes a long way toward setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth!