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Is water a better between-meal bottle drink than milk?
For daytime bottles between meals, how do dental recommendations differ for water, breast milk, formula, and plain cow’s milk? I’m wondering whether water meaningfully reduces the time teeth are exposed to sugars if a child sips throughout the day, or whether the answer depends on age and feeding needs.
I also see a distinction between sipping during the day and falling asleep with a bottle. When would it make sense to ask a pediatric dentist or clinician before changing a child’s usual milk or formula routine?
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1 reply
- The age distinction matters here: for infants under 12 months, breast milk or formula remains the main milk feed; water isn’t a replacement, and cow’s milk shouldn’t replace breast milk or formula as their main drink.
- For older children, water between meals can reduce repeated exposure to milk sugars, while milk can be offered with meals. If a child’s age, growth, or medical needs make a feeding change uncertain, check with their clinician before changing the routine.