Pacifiers can be a normal part of a baby’s ability to self-soothe and calm themselves. Infants who use a pacifier have a decreased risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry acknowledges that the use of a pacifier or thumb sucking can be a normal soothing habit in infancy and early childhood, but warns against prolonged use because this can cause undesirable changes to your child’s smile. These habits can also cause changes to the position of teeth, shape, and growth pattern of the jaw bones.
When should my child stop using a pacifier?
The package of all pacifiers warns to discontinue use at 6 months of age. This is because they can become a choking hazard once teeth erupt. If your child bites on the pacifier, discontinue use immediately. If your child does not bite on the pacifier and continues to use past 6 months, the changes in the position of teeth and growth of jaws may self-correct or may require intervention, depending on how many hours each day and how many years the habit persists. Dr. Villaseñor and the team at Rise and Shine Pediatric Dentistry will evaluate your child’s bite and position of their teeth at your appointment, and let you know if your child’s pacifier habit is affecting their smile. The goal is to transition to using the pacifier less and less as your child develops other self-soothing strategies.
How can I support my child in transitioning away from the pacifier?
Praise your child when they begin to self-soothe in other ways besides their pacifier! Once your child is interested in stopping their pacifier habit, you may choose to use positive reinforcement with a sticker chart for when your child doesn’t use their pacifier or substitute a different lovey or stuffed animal that helps to calm your child without causing dental changes. Call our office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Villasenor so she can share other tips and tools to help your child adjust to not using a pacifier today!