Pacifiers can be a lifesaver for both parents and babies. They help little ones self-soothe, fall asleep more easily, and even provide comfort during stressful moments—and parents benefit by being able to have a few moments of reprieve! That said, while pacifiers (and thumb sucking) are a completely normal part of early childhood, it’s important for parents to know that prolonged use can affect how your child’s teeth and jaws develop. Here’s what you need to know.
How Pacifiers and Thumb Sucking Affect Dental Development
The term “pacifier teeth” is often used to describe the dental changes that happen when a pacifier is used beyond the toddler years. Both pacifiers and thumb sucking can apply gentle but consistent pressure to the teeth, jaws, and roof of the mouth, and over time, this can cause dental issues, including:
- An open bite, which refers to when the front teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed.
- An overbite, when the top front teeth stick out further than the bottom teeth.
- Shifts in jaw growth, which can impact how the permanent teeth come in.
Using Pacifiers the Right Way
The good news is that pacifiers don’t always cause problems—especially when they are used correctly and not for too long. Consider these tips:
- Try to limit your child’s pacifier use after age 2 to only naps and bedtime, gradually weaning them off the habit by age 3.
- Avoid dipping the pacifier in anything sweet or sticky; this only further increases the chances of issues like cavities or gum disease as their smile develops.
- Encourage other comfort habits like snuggling a stuffed animal, sitting in a rocking chair, or any other form of healthy self-soothing.
If you notice your child’s front teeth not lining up properly, or if they’re still heavily dependent on their pacifier (or thumb sucking habit) past age 3, their dental development may be at risk! An early evaluation from their dentist can ensure that bigger problems are prevented in the future and your child’s smile stays healthy moving forward.
About the Practice
Our team here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics has proudly served families in Nashua and the surrounding area for several years, offering a wide range of pediatric dental and orthodontic services for children of all ages under the lead of Dr. Myles Clancy and Dr. Sadaf Mostafavian. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to set up an appointment for your child, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (603) 880-5002.