The use of the pacifier has been a subject of controversy for many years, and many parents still relate its use directly to poor positioning of the teeth. Experts, however, recommend its use from the first month of life since it has been related to:
- The decrease in the incidence of sudden death.
- Calms anxiety
- It acts as a natural analgesic reducing pain in children.
For this reason, we believe it is important to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate use of the pacifier, following the recommendations of the Spanish Society of Pediatric Dentistry:
What is the proper use of a pacifier for a baby?
- It is preferable that he sucks the pacifier to a finger, as it is a more difficult habit to correct and has worse consequences.
- Use should be discontinued before the age of 3 years.
- It must be made of plastic material, have rounded edges and a handle that allows it to be removed from the mouth. The nipple cannot be longer than 3.3 cm.
- Change it with some frequency.
What would be an inappropriate use?
- Spread it on sweet liquids to soothe the baby as it may cause tooth decay.
- Give the pacifier before breastfeeding is established.
- Using a pacifier to delay a meal.
- Hanging the pacifier around the child’s neck due to the risk of suffocation.
If you have any doubts about its use or difficulties when removing it, ask your pediatric dentist!Surely we can help you and provide you with tips for its removal!
Dr. Elena Lorenzo
