How Can I Prevent Tooth Decay When Nursing or Bottle Feeding?

Taking your baby off of the breast when he/she falls asleep can prevent baby tooth decay. Hold your baby while bottle feeding. Always take a bottle filled with milk or juice away from the sleeping child.

If your child requires a bottle at bedtime provide a bottle filled with water. Instead of a bottle try comforting your child with a pacifier or a favorite toy or blanket.

Check with your health care provider to make sure your child is getting the right amount of fluoride. Brush your baby's teeth with a soft toothbrush daily.

Begin teaching your baby to use a cup by seven months. It's a good idea to introduce juice in a cup. Your baby can be off the bottle by 12 months.