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Pacifiers

For babies to suck is very natural. It is how they nourish and soothe themselves. When a baby is not eating, the pacifier is better to use for soothing than a finger/thumb or a toy.

Pacifiers are less likely to cause a malocclusion and are usually discontinued at an earlier age than is thumbsucking. It is easier to take away a pacifier then a finger or thumb. Thumbsuckers typically continue the habit until 3-5 years.

Thoughts on Pacifiers

if you notice your child beginning to suck their fingers or thumbs, during the first 3 months of life, you can introduce your child to a pacifier

to avoid any trauma to the gums, it's important to buy a pacifier with a nipple made of rubber

do not use the soother around the clock, only when necessary

in rare instances, pacifiers may cause complications, like abnormal swallowing patterns

check the pacifier daily for breakage. They do not last forever. The child could suck a "ripped" pacifier and choke on it

do not hang the pacifier around your baby's neck with a string. Your baby could be accidentally strangled

Choosing a Pacifier

to avoid improper breathing and abnormal molding of the baby's jaws, choose a soother that resembles the natural nipple and breast

Pacifier use can cause abnormal development of the jaws and teeth. Some reasons are:

improperly sized and shaped soother

strength of sucking action

length of time the soother is present within the mouth

If you have any questions or concerns about pacifiers, talk to your dental hygienist or dentist.