Babies are born with an instinct to suck. Sucking not only serves as a way for your baby to take in food but also offers a way of self-calming. Pacifiers act as an alternative to constant bottle feeding or nursing, which can lead to overfeeding. Although most pediatricians and dentists agree that limited pacifier use will not harm children's teeth, opinions vary on how long children should use pacifiers. Prolonged pacifier use can lead to dental problems that may need to be repaired with orthodontics.
Infants
Pacifiers are acceptable for babies and are convenient and efficient. Parents often find them useful between feedings, at nap time or during long car rides. Pacifiers come in handy in situations that babies perceive to be stressful, like doctor visits. Although some negative consequences are associated with pacifier use, they are not related to tooth development in infants. Parents should be more concerned about breastfeeding difficulty, dependency and ear infections.
Teething
As babies grow older and begin to develop teeth, pacifiers have a limited chance of affecting their teeth because the babies may not want them. Babies tend to avoid the sucking sensation at this time and are more likely to trade in their pacifier for a teething ring. Teething rings are more effective than pacifiers at this stage of your baby's development because they offer your baby an opportunity to gnaw on a firm object without it breaking. Teething babies are more interested in providing relief from swollen gums than they are relieving stress through sucking.
Older Children
Pacifier use is not recommended once a child has developed permanent teeth. Prolonged pacifier use may lead to a variety of dental problems. The top teeth may slant outward. In addition, children are at risk for developing a cross bite, a condition in which the upper jaw is more narrow than the lower jaw. These problems are not associated with teeth that are not permanent. Baby teeth that show signs of improper development usually correct themselves.
Timing
Using a pacifier for an extended period of time is associated with a variety of problems. Avoid the negative effects of your baby's pacifier use by limiting the amount of time she uses it. Aim to use the pacifier during your child's early months when her sucking reflex is at its strongest. Consider using the pacifier only at specific times, like nap time or between feedings. Recognize that some situations are harmless to your baby, and although their crying may cause anxiety for you, it is beneficial to allow your baby to learn how to self soothe on his own. Establish an end date before you start, create a plan to wean your baby off of his pacifier, and stick to it.
