Hi, during a child's first few years, sucking pacifiers probably won't damage the his teeth. But frequent and long-term sucking can cause problems. This is especially true if the habit continues after baby teeth start to fall out. Long-term sucking can cause:
- The top front teeth to slant out
- The bottom front teeth to tilt in
- The upper and lower jaws to be misaligned
- The roof of the mouth to be narrower side to side
Here are a few things to consider if your child uses a pacifier:
- Buy products that are constructed as one piece. There shouldn't be any parts that can break off and potentially be swallowed or breathed into the lungs.
- Never fasten a pacifier on a string or necklace around your child's neck. Your baby could accidentally be strangled.
- Don't try to calm a fussy baby by dipping a pacifier in honey or sugar water. This will increase your child's risk of tooth decay.
- Use positive reinforcement to encourage older children to give up the pacifier.