Breastmilk is an important source of antibodies and nutrients for young infants and helps provide protection from childhood illnesses and has long term benefits such as decreasing a child’s risk for diabetes.

The World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics both recommend that mothers begin breastfeeding within the first hour of an infant’s life and that children continue to breastfeed in conjunction with a healthy diet until at least two years of age.  The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and we at Cipes Pediatric Dentistry fully support breastfeeding until age two whenever possible.

Of course we understand that this is not always possible and support parents who choose alternatives as needed.  Remember that “fed is best!”  This means that a baby must be fully fed to have the best outcomes, and that can’t always be achieved with breast milk alone.

Keep in mind that ad lib (frequent) nighttime breast or bottle feeding after eruption of the first tooth can lead to cavities and should be avoided.  For more information about infant oral health see our blogs on Infant Feeding and its Impact on Oral health (April’23) and Make Every Bit Count (January ’21).

We’re here to support you and your family whenever needed.