For many parents, pacifiers are an indispensable tool. They can calm fussy babies, promote good sleep, and might even reduce the risk of SIDS. No doubt, these little objects can be very useful, and there is nothing wrong with using them for your baby — but only up to a certain point. Let’s talk about how pacifiers might affect your baby’s teeth and how you can keep their smile healthy.
Problems with Pacifiers
While pacifiers certainly have some benefits, they also have some significant potential drawbacks, especially when it comes to oral health:
- Pacifiers are not always clean. They can collect dirt and bacteria, which may cause your baby to become ill or increase their risk of dental problems.
- They might cause pacifier teeth. “Pacifier teeth” is the term used to describe what can happen when a child uses a pacifier (or sucks their thumb) for too long or sucks too hard. Their teeth and jaws may become misaligned, which can lead to the need for orthodontic intervention in the future.
- They might contribute to decay. Some parents dip pacifiers in something sweet to placate an upset baby. While a rare sweet treat is fine, doing this regularly can expose a baby’s teeth to too many bacteria, which can lead to decay.
Protecting Your Baby
Here are some things you can do to reduce your baby’s risk of pacifier-related problems:
- Keep their pacifiers clean. Some parents use a UV sanitizing device to do this. You should also avoid pacifiers with a removable liquid interior or those that have multiple parts; they are much more prone to collecting bacteria.
- Do not sweeten your baby’s pacifiers. Simply give them a clean pacifier that does not have anything sweet on it.
- Know when to wean your child off pacifiers. To prevent pacifier teeth, your child should stop using pacifiers before the age of 3.
Some kids naturally stop using pacifiers on their own, but others might need extra help. For example, they might need alternative forms of comfort, like a special stuffed animal or regular cuddles with Mom or Dad.
If it is particularly difficult to wean your child off of pacifiers, talk to Dr. A and our team. We can suggest strategies that will protect your child’s teeth.
Pacifiers are useful, but they are not all good! Use them with caution so your baby does not end up with serious dental problems.
Meet Our Practice
Dr. A is a highly skilled pediatric dentist who loves to work with kids and support their parents. If you have questions about pacifier use, thumb sucking, or anything else related to your child’s oral development, she and our team would be happy to speak with you. Contact Aledo Pediatric Dentistry at 817-406-2025.