Orthodontic vs. Conventional Pacifiers

Orthodontic vs. Conventional Pacifier

If you are the parent of a newborn or young baby, you probably have a ton of pacifiers floating around in your home. While pacifiers are a great way to comfort and quiet babies during their first couple of years, they can cause dental health problems. A traditional pacifier contains three basic parts: a handle, a shield for the mouth, and a nipple made of plastic, rubber, or silicone.

Cons of Using a Pacifier

Pacifier overuse can interfere with the growth of the mouth and the development of teeth. The roof of the mouth can change shape and cause developing teeth to misalign. If a child is still using a pacifier at the age of 3 or 4, it often leads to more pronounced dental issues including severe crossbites and overbites, which can impede chewing and speech. Fortunately, orthopedic pacifiers are now an option. They look similar to a regular pacifier except for the lower side of the nipple is flat, keeping the child’s upper and lower jaws in the proper position.

Schedule a Pediatric Dentist Appointment

Regardless of which pacifier you decide to go with, there are always a few rules to keep in mind. For starters, always clean it thoroughly before use. In addition, when your baby turns 3 months old, replace your pacifiers with larger ones and do so again at 6 months. Try to wean your little one off of pacifiers before they’re 2 years old.  

As your child grows, it is important to take them for regular dental exams and teeth cleanings. Schedule an appointment for your little one at our Plantation pediatric dentist or Tamarac pediatric dentist location today! We can answer any questions about your child’s oral health and perform a thorough exam to make sure everything is in good shape. 

July 17, 2021