Q: Dear Doctor, I would like to ask which type of cup is good to introduce for baby at 6 month? is it sippy cup? or cup with the straw ? or the regular cup without lid? is it true that the sippy cup can increase risk of dental caries, and giving effect to the oral and speech development? (Nur)
A: Dear Nur,
Cups are often introduced after 6 months when weaning the child off breast or bottle-feeding. Nevertheless, not all babies accept cup feeding readily and on occasion there are babies who reject the cup totally!
Most babies adapt to regular cup feeding by age 12 months, and in the transition period, some parents use a sippy cup or cup with a large straw. Sippy cups are popular as it gives the child some control from spilling when compared to a regular cup.
Because sippy cups reduce spills during feeding, some parents allow their children to use the sippy cups for prolonged periods. This, and if the beverage is sweet, can increase the risk of tooth decay in children. The same caries risk applies to children with bottle feeding habits especially during sleeptime.
Additionally, prolonged use of the sippy cup (similar to thumb sucking) can cause the front teeth to be pushed outward (open-bite) and create possible speech problems in some children. It is therefore advised that toddlers be introduced to a regular cup for feeding when they are able to do so. Of course, it would mean you have extra cleaning to do with the spills!
With regards,
( Dr Kalaiarasu )