At the turn of the 20th century, the pacifier came along—and this device has garnered quite a reputation for being a lifesaver for parents struggling to soothe their fussy babies! However, did you know that despite their inherent usefulness, pacifiers have the potential to negatively impact dental development? Here’s more from your trusted pediatric dentist about this curious connection along with some ways to safely break the habit and ensure that your little one’s teeth come in correctly.
How Does Pacifier Usage Cause Dental Problems?
It’s worth noting that a pacifier can offer several awesome benefits to children; it’s a great form of self-soothing, it can aid in weaning, it actively reduces the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), and it noticeably eases the discomfort associated with nursing.
However, for all of their benefits, pacifiers do come with potential drawbacks that manifest as dental problems. One common problem that often results from pacifier overuse is bite misalignment, including cross bites, open bites, underbites and other issues. These bite problems often occur when older children use pacifiers (usually past the age of 4), since the prolonged use may force the child’s teeth to move. This prolonged use can also sometimes change the shape of the roof of the mouth, causing further problems.
In extreme cases, pacifier overuse has also been linked to gingival recession, or the loss of gum tissue that exposes the roots of teeth. Pediatric cavities are also a possibility, especially if the pacifier is dipped into a sugary or sweet substance.
How Can I Lessen the Impact of Pacifiers on My Child’s Teeth?
Fortunately, your child can still gain all of the benefits that a pacifier has to offer so long as you show a little care and caution. Here are some tips worth considering:
- Refrain from dipping your child’s pacifier into sweet liquids or substances; though it might make it more appealing to your little one, the added oral health risk isn’t worth it!
- Keep your child’s pacifier clean and regularly replace it as needed, generally every 4 to 6 weeks. Do not let your child share pacifiers with others.
- Avoid pacifiers that aren’t one solid piece, have removable parts, or liquid inside them. Be sure that the pacifier is an appropriate size for your child (they usually have recommended age ranges listed on their packaging).
- Consider an orthodontic pacifier; these are flatter than traditional options and can help to facilitate proper jaw alignment to a certain degree.
- Break the habit when it’s time—even though there’s no “exact” answer, most physicians generally recommend reducing pacifier usage between the ages of 6 to 12 months.
Pacifiers shouldn’t be feared for the problems they can cause, but rather, admired for the solutions they can provide. Just be sure that if you’re giving one to your child, you’re mindful of how often they’re using it, as well as how they’re using it!
About the Practice
Here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our talented team prides itself on being able to provide families in Pelham with an unmatched level of care! We’re thrilled to offer a wide range of pediatric dental and orthodontic services for children of all ages. If your little one is due for their next visit, or if you have any questions about the blog, feel free to contact us online or over the phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (603) 255-4084.