Can sippy cups cause cavities in children? i've read that bottles can cause cavities in children, especially if they drink before bed, but i'd like to know if sippy cups can do the same thing. is it better to avoid using them?

It : It is not the bottle or the cup that causes the problem of tooth decay... It's the juice or milk or formula that the child is drinking. These foods have sugars that sit and ferment and feed the bacteria around the teeth all night long. The acids that are produced cause the cavities. That's why it is called baby bottle syndrome.... A mouth full of cavities due to falling asleep with a bottle. Feed your child, and brush or wipe his/her teeth well before they go to bed. If they still need a bottle/cup, i would suggest water only. I'm sure the other panelists will give you some great advice, too hope this info helps.

Hope : Hope rochester, sippy cups do not cause cavities; it is what is in them that can. Fill them with water. Anything with sugar bathing the teeth over prolonged periods of time will cause a lot of cavities. Please note that includes milk, even breast milk. Hope this is helpful, michael i. Wollock, dmd, agd fellow dentistry at suburban square 610-649-0313.

I : I agree with the other respondents that it is the contents of the sippy cup that is the causative factor for tooth decay. The constant bathing of the tooth enamel with sugary liquids, milk and other detrimental solutions "feed" the bacteria. The resultant acidity destroys the enamel. If you are unsure as to whether a liquid is hazardous to your child's dental health ask your dentist or pediatric dentist.