About Orthodontic Bottle Nipples

Orthodontic nipples are desired by many parents due to the ergonomic shape of the nipple. This shape mimics the inside of a baby's mouth and allows all of the baby's mouth to put pressure on the nipple. This helps reduce the flow of air to the stomach while sucking the milk from the nipple.

  1. Shape

    • An orthodontic bottle nipple is designed to fit the shape of the baby's palate and gums. The nipple is flat on one side and has a bump on the other. The end is an oval shape that tapers in toward the bottle top then widens back out again. The flat part of the nipple rests on the baby's tongue.

    Flow Speed and Size

    • Orthodontic nipples are available in several flow speeds and sizes. The flow speed refers to how fast the milk comes out of the nipple. It is important that the milk drips out of the nipple at a steady speed and not come out in a stream. The nipple should be replaced at that point.

      The size of nipple is determined by the baby. An educated guess can be made as to what size nipple is appropriate. Trying different sizes of nipples will provide the baby an opportunity to let the parent know which one he prefers. The parent can then purchase enough orthodontic nipples to last a few months.

    Material

    • The orthodontic nipple is available for purchase in either a silicone, plastic or rubber material. The material is the second factor in determining how fast the milk flows through the opening. A silicone orthodontic nipple is the best nipple to purchase if a slow-flowing milk stream is desired.

    Use

    • It is best to have a father or another caregiver introduce an orthodontic nipple to a baby that is being breastfed. This helps the baby to realize that the mother produces the milk, yet they can get food from other individuals. It is also a good idea to begin the bottle experience by cradling the baby close to the body like she was being breastfed. Let the baby play with the tip of the nipple until she gets used to it. Do not force it into her mouth. Other positions of feeding the baby can be established after she has gotten used to the nipple.

    Problems

    • A baby can develop a habit called tongue retraction from the orthodontic nipple. This happens when the baby pulls her tongue back into her mouth while sucking on the nipple. Tongue retraction can cause pain to a breastfeeding mother.

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