From the moment babies are born, they want to be soothed. They are always searching for the comfort that comes with the feeling of being fed. That’s what led to the invention of pacifiers. Once known as the “baby comforter” at the turn of the 20th century, these self-soothing creations keep babies calm and happy. However, you may be concerned if they will negatively affect the development of your baby’s developing teeth. Here’s what to know about the connection between pacifiers and your little one’s oral health…and when it’s time to move on from the “baby comforter”.
Pacifiers and Your Child’s Oral Health
Modern pacifiers have now been used for over a hundred years. Babies use them as a way to self-soothe. Research has found that they are able to ease the discomfort of nursing premature babies. Additionally, they can also help in weaning from breastfeeding and there’s even research to support that they reduce the risk of SIDS.
While “binkies” may have their benefits, there can some downsides to using them for too long. These include:
- Misaligned bite: If used for too long during the development of babies’ teeth, pacifiers can cause crossbites, open bites, and other dental alignment issues. These issues can affect the way your child’s upper and lower teeth rest. The continual sucking motion can eventually cause their little teeth to move, and even possibly change the shape of their mouth. A study conducted in 2001 found that 71% of children who used a pacifier or sucked their thumb over the age of four had bite problems; however, only 14% of babies who stopped the self-soothing techniques before 24 months had alignment concerns.
- Gingival recession and decay: It is a common habit for some parents to dip pacifiers in sweet substances to make them more appealing to their children. While this may give immediate comfort to the child, it, unfortunately, exposes their gums and developing teeth to sugar. This can cause plaque buildup and feed cavity-causing bacteria.
When Is It Time to Break the Habit?
Most dentists recommend discontinuing pacifiers after 24 months of age to avoid developing any oral health issues. Additionally, medical doctors recommend reducing the use of them when your baby’s teeth erupt between the ages of 6 to 12 months. If the self-soothing habit isn’t nipped in the bud before the age of 4, they have a higher risk of preventable dental problems.
Prolonged sucking habits can lead to your little one needing dental work to fix their bite, such as orthodontics. If left untreated, a poor bite can affect the health of their teeth, speech, and even oral functions. Be sure to take your little one to see their dentist every six months by their first birthday. Their pediatric dentist can monitor their developing teeth and keep you informed on how to best nurture their growing smile!
About the Author
Dr. Michael Rullo and his team at Hamilton Pediatric Dental Care are eager to help keep your child’s oral health in top condition throughout every stage of their life! He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at Western University and completed his Pediatric Dental Residency and Masters in Oral Biology. As a parent to two children, his goal is to help children’s smiles grow as healthy and strong as can be. To schedule an interview, contact him through his website or call +1 905-525-8272.