Pacifiers might soothe a crying tot today, but they can cause big problems in the future
Weaning your toddler off a pacifier can be a big ordeal – but it’s one that’s worth the effort. Both pacifier use and thumb/finger sucking can lead to disruption of tooth alignment, and crooked jaws. But this depends on exactly when and how long your child is using these comfort crutches – and how young they are when they stop.
Ceasing pacifier use at an early enough age can help prevent the need for orthodontic treatment down the road.
When Should My Child Stop Using a Pacifier?
Typically, they should stop between the ages of 2-4. This is when the permanent teeth are developing, and when the overall shape of the teeth and mouth is taking hold. Stopping before the permanent teeth come in will (usually) allow the bite to correct itself and recover from the pacifier or thumb sucking habit. As your child’s teeth continue to develop, we’ll be able to learn more about their alignment and decide whether braces might be necessary.
What if My Toddler’s Not Ready to Stop?
It’s always hard for a child to give up an object or habit that provides them with reassurance, and pacifiers, bottles, and fingers all fill this role. But in addition to them disrupting the bite, they’re also a risk of tooth damage, and can cause your toddler to struggle socially once he or she starts preschool (with children targeting thumb sucking as an immature or embarrassing habit).
Talk to your child about trying new things, and offer up other objects that will occupy their hands and help distract them from the lack of pacifier/thumb in their mouths. Praise and reward your toddler when he or she goes a day without a pacifier, and show that there’s life beyond this familiar object.
If you’re ever uncertain about your child’s teeth, or how they’re developing, just get in touch.
