Pacifiers and the Infant’s Developing Mouth
Babies are born with a natural urge to suck, even before birth. This instinct helps them feed, grow and feel comforted. A pacifier can help soothe a baby between feedings but should not replace feeding or parental care and comfort. Understanding the effects of pacifier use can help prevent dental problems.
How to use pacifiers safely
- Wait until breastfeeding is well-established, approximately 4-6 weeks after birth, before introducing a pacifier, unless its use has been recommended for a premature or sick baby.
- Before offering a pacifier, check if your baby is hungry, tired or bored. Try to meet those specific needs instead of using a pacifier as a substitute.
- Sterilize a new pacifier by boiling it for five minutes in water and cooling it before use.
- Wash it with hot, soapy water after each use. Don’t “clean” the pacifier by sucking on it yourself, as that can spread germs.
- Never let your baby chew on a pacifier. Broken pieces can cause choking. Inspect pacifiers for cracks or tears before each use and replace every two months.
- Never dip pacifiers in sugary substances as this can cause cavities and gum disease.
- Never tie a pacifier around your baby’s neck.
Pacifiers are helpful in infancy, but extended use can cause dental problems.
- Misaligned Bite: Pacifier use beyond three to four years of age can cause front teeth to be pushed forward. When this happens, it can be difficult for the mouth to close properly and can lead to speech issues and increased risk of injury.
- Improper Jaw Development: Jaw growth and alignment can be affected; orthodontics may be needed later in life to correct issues.
There are ways to reduce the dental health harms associated with pacifier use. Reduce use gradually between six to 12 months. Limit use after two years of age and stop completely by three years of age. Regular dental check-ups can detect pacifier-related concerns early and allow for timely intervention.
Never use punishment or humiliation when ending pacifier use. Try a reward chart to track progress and provide encouragement. Perhaps the “pacifier fairy” can arrive to collect it or the child can choose a special toy to replace it.
Pacifiers are useful for comforting infants. Short-term use and good oral hygiene prevent potential dental concerns and set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Resources and References:
https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/pregnancy-and-babies/pacifiers
https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/cfyt/dental_care_children/pacifiers.asp
https://aaoinfo.org/whats-trending/can-pacifiers-and-thumb-sucking-affect-my-childs-teeth
Vijayasri Rajaganesh CDA II for the Middlesex-London Health Unit
