Babies often start to get their primary teeth around six months old. You might be bittersweet about this moment, as it shows just how fast they are growing up! However, the teething phase can leave you scrambling as your loved one may become more irritable. Pacifiers are a great way to help soothe them during this time, but can they affect growing grins? Here’s what you should know.
What Good Do Pacifiers Do?
When your child starts teething, their gums can become tender. A great way to ease their discomfort is by giving them a damp, cool cloth or a chilled teething ring. However, a popular option that many parents opt for is a pacifier. They have a silicon or soft rubber nipple that your loved one will suck on, helping calm them down.
In fact, using one in the first six months can be helpful in many ways. They can help wean nursing, ease discomfort, encourage self-soothing, and reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. The American Academy of Pediatrics even encourages parents to put their babies to bed with their binky. Just be sure that it’s not attached to anything or has straps.
Are Pacifiers Bad for My Child’s Oral Development?
Although pacifiers can be good for your loved one, they can affect oral development if you aren’t careful. Many people tend to dip the end of them into something sweet; that way, their infant will want to latch onto it. However, this can cause cavities or even gum recession in more severe cases.
Not only that, but using these handy calming devices can lead to misalignment. The pressure from using them and thumb-sucking can move their teeth as they come in. Developing malocclusion can cause a whole other set of issues as they grow up, such as increased enamel wear.
How Can I Ease My Child Off Pacifiers?
Kids often stop sucking between two and four years old. However, you may want to start weaning your child off their pacifier as early as six months! Continued use in 24 months olds can encourage oral issues, so the sooner you break it, the better! Many professionals agree that four years of age is when little ones should stop using these devices flat out.
Of course, every family is different. Letting your child use one when they do need that extra comfort may be good for them. Just keep it in moderation and talk to their dentist to feel confident knowing you are taking care of their growing smile.
About the Author
Dr. Scott Parker earned his dental degree from Loma Linda University. He is dedicated to providing families in the Calimesa community with the high-quality dental care they deserve. As a parent, navigating your child’s oral health can be confusing, so Dr. Parker is here to lend a helping hand. If you have any questions about your loved one’s grin, schedule an appointment or call his office at (909) 795-6019.