Pacifiers can be a lifesaver for new parents. They help soothe fussy babies, reduce crying, and even lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) when used during sleep. However, many parents worry about whether pacifier use might affect their child’s dental development. The truth is, pacifiers can be both helpful and harmless—when used correctly and in moderation. Here’s what you need to know about how pacifiers can impact your baby’s teeth and when it’s time to wean them off.
The Benefits of Pacifier Use
Before diving into potential dental concerns, it’s important to acknowledge that pacifiers do have several advantages. They can help comfort your baby between feedings, make it easier for them to fall asleep, and satisfy their natural need to suck—something newborns find deeply soothing.
Additionally, studies have shown that giving your baby a pacifier during naps or bedtime can reduce the risk of SIDS. For these reasons, pediatricians and pediatric dentists generally agree that pacifiers can be a useful tool in the early months of life.
When Pacifier Use Becomes a Problem
Pacifiers only start to affect dental development when they’re used too frequently or for too long. Consistent and prolonged sucking can put pressure on the developing gums and jaw, leading to changes in tooth alignment and bite.
Potential dental effects include:
- Open bite: The front teeth don’t meet when the mouth is closed.
- Crossbite: The upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down.
- Overbite or protruding front teeth: The top teeth push forward.
- Changes in jaw shape: Long-term pacifier use can affect how the upper and lower jaws grow.
These issues usually develop if a child continues to use a pacifier beyond the age of 2 or 3, when permanent teeth and jaw patterns begin to form.
Best Practices for Healthy Pacifier Use
To ensure your baby benefits from a pacifier without harming their dental health, follow these simple guidelines:
- Choose the right pacifier. Opt for an orthodontic pacifier designed to support natural oral development. These have a flatter nipple shape that reduces pressure on gums and teeth.
- Limit pacifier use. Allow pacifiers primarily during naps and bedtime, rather than throughout the day. This reduces prolonged sucking and gives your baby’s mouth time to rest.
- Keep it clean and safe. Regularly clean the pacifier with warm, soapy water, and avoid dipping it in sweet substances like honey or juice—these can lead to early tooth decay.
- Wean at the right time. Try to begin weaning your child off the pacifier by age 2. Most children can stop without difficulty if the process is gradual and positive.
When to See a Pediatric Dentist
It’s recommended that your child have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. A pediatric dentist can check your baby’s oral development, discuss pacifier use, and provide personalized advice.
Pacifiers can be a comforting and beneficial tool for babies when used appropriately. The key is moderation and timing. Occasional pacifier use during infancy is unlikely to cause dental problems—but extended use beyond toddlerhood can impact tooth alignment and jaw growth. By making mindful choices and consulting your pediatric dentist, you can protect your baby’s smile as it grows strong and healthy.
About the Practice
Are you looking for a trusted provider of dentistry for your precious infant? At Beachside Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, our board-certified pediatric dentist ensures that they’re getting the very best care possible. Your little one will love our fun office with games and a beach theme. If you’re worried about costs, we accept and maximize dental insurance benefits. Ready to schedule an appointment? Head to our website or call (321) 773-8578.