Directly feeding of mother’s milk off of the mother’s breast always has advantages over any other formula or type of food. If a mother chooses to use a bottle during the baby’s first months, there are certain tactics to transfer to breastfeeding again easier. For example, in most cases it is best to choose a bottle that has a nipple with low flow and that is long enough for the baby to suck into deep into the mouth as it is done with the nipple during breastfeeding. Softer nipples can be a better choice than a harder one. The baby should be firmly supported during feeding. Some sources claim that the baby should be bottle-fed in a position in which the baby would be breastfed.
When you start feeding, it is recommended to offer the bottle just as you would offer to the breast: by touching the baby’s mouth with the nipple so that the baby opens its mouth wide. Only then you should allow the baby to take the nipple deep into mouth and not to push the nipple into the mouth. If the mother uses a bottle with a wide-base nipple, it is good that the baby takes the nipple deep enough to place the lips onto the base.
Speaking of various baby feeding products, let’s discuss the baby bottle. It is best to choose a bottle that has a nipple with a slow flow and that is long enough so that the baby can get it deep into mouth, just as it would take the nipple deep into mouth. A silicone nipple on a bottle has shown as a better choice than a rubber one. When you buy a bottle, it is good to choose one that is made of strong, durable material (that won’t break easily), and one that can be boiled because you have to regularly sterilize bottle.
Basically, the nipple should physiologically adapt to the baby’s jaw and leave enough space for the tongue to move/suck. The flat part of the nipple that has a lower surface is mildly rounded upwards which enables the tongue to be in a natural position, while at the same time promoting development of the upper and lower jaw. It is also important that the nipple is soft and bendable. It is recommended that the neck of the nipple (part of the nipple closest to its protector) is narrow enough to put as little pressure as possible onto the jaws and teeth.
Latex nipples are made of quality natural material. Processed latex, as a material, is extremely durable and elastic. Thanks to its long durability, latex is particularly good for children that already have teeth. The downside of latex, as part of baby feeding products, is that it should be kept away from sunlight/UV lights because it causes faster aging of this material. However, there is a change of color of the latex nipple/pacifier (this is a sure sign you should get a new one and this should be done every 1-2 months tops). Another positive side of latex is the fact that it is a natural material and that it can be disposed in an ecological way.
On the other hand, silicone nipples/pacifiers are made of higher quality synthetic material. This transparent silicone material is temperature-resistant, and direct sun light doesn’t have any effect on material aging. However, silicone is quite sensitive and can easily be damaged. You should replace the silicone pacifier as soon as you notice the first bite marks or of any other damage.