To reduce dental caries risk, which practice should be limited in toddlers' diets?

To reduce dental caries risk, which practice should be limited in toddlers' diets?

• A. Prolonged use of a bottle
• B. Increased fruit intake
• C. Frequent yogurt consumption
• D. Whole milk as main drink

Answer: (A)

Prolonged bottle use raises the risk of dental caries in toddlers because sugars from milk or other liquids linger on the teeth for long periods, especially when the child goes to sleep with the bottle. Sleep reduces saliva flow, which normally helps wash away sugars, so bacteria have extended access to fermentable sugars and produce acids that demineralize enamel, leading to tooth decay. To lower risk, transition to a cup and avoid bedtime bottles, particularly with sugary drinks. After about age one, whole milk can be the main drink, but it should come from a cup rather than a bottle. Keeping up with good oral hygiene and limiting sugary snacks further supports prevention.

Prolonged bottle use raises the risk of dental caries in toddlers because sugars from milk or other liquids linger on the teeth for long periods, especially when the child goes to sleep with the bottle. Sleep reduces saliva flow, which normally helps wash away sugars, so bacteria have extended access to fermentable sugars and produce acids that demineralize enamel, leading to tooth decay. To lower risk, transition to a cup and avoid bedtime bottles, particularly with sugary drinks. After about age one, whole milk can be the main drink, but it should come from a cup rather than a bottle. Keeping up with good oral hygiene and limiting sugary snacks further supports prevention.