For many parents, pacifiers can be a lifesaver. In addition to helping babies soothe themselves, they are also a great way to keep your child from reaching for other objects to put in their mouth. However, pacifiers sometimes get a bad reputation because of the risk of dental issues in the future. Is this something you should be concerned about for your child? Here’s what you should know.
What Are the Benefits of Pacifiers?
Despite their bad reputation, pacifiers are very beneficial for children and parents when babies are young. Here are some of the pros:
- Self-Soothing: Parents need a break every once in a while, and pacifiers can be a great way to get a little bit of space. Pacifiers can help your baby to relax so you can accomplish other tasks, like grabbing a bite to eat.
- Weaning: If the time has come to wean your baby, a pacifier can make the change easier for your child to handle.
- Reduces Risk of SIDS: One of the greatest benefits of pacifiers is that they are linked to a significant reduction in the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.
- Easing Discomfort: Pacifiers can help to reduce discomfort for nursing infants.
Are Pacifiers Harmful for Teeth?
Unfortunately, pacifiers do come with their oral health risks. According to the American Dental Association, both pacifiers and thumb-sucking can prevent proper growth of the mouth and alignment of teeth. They can also cause changes in the roof of the mouth. Pacifiers can cause additional issues for children who are older than the age of two.
The frequency of pacifier use is also a factor when it comes to oral health risks. If your child reaches for it occasionally, they will be less likely to have issues than if they are constantly vigorously sucking on it. It’s important to take note of how often your child is using it.
When to Break the Pacifier Habit?
There isn’t an exact age to take away your child’s pacifier, so it’s important to consider it on a case-by-case basis. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises stopping pacifier use after the age of 3 years old. By 4 years old, children should be using a pacifier, as the risk of dental issues increases. Encouragement and praise are tools that you can use at home to help your child give up their pacifier.
Pacifiers are great, but if they are used for too long, they can cause issues. By monitoring your child’s pacifier use and working with their pediatric dentist, you can help set your little one’s smile up for success!
About the Practice
At The Dental Specialists Pediatric Dentistry, we have a team of three pediatric dentists serving children in Garland and surrounding communities. With their combined experience and expertise, your child can get pretty much anything they need under one roof! For more information or to schedule an appointment for your child, visit our website or call (972) 364-7472.