Breaking Oral Habits

Non-nutritive sucking is considered normal in the first few years of life. Thumb or digit sucking and use of a pacifier may be soothing to your child. The frequency, duration, and strength of the sucking reflex can cause alterations in jaw shape and tooth position. The severity of these changes will determine whether self-correction will occur with cessation of the habit and the eruption of the permanent teeth or if orthodontic intervention will be necessary in the future.

One should consider the following when selecting a pacifier:

• It should be made from non-toxic material
• It should be one piece with a soft, symmetrical nipple
• It should have a contoured shield, which is wider than your child’s mouth.
• The shield should have air vents
• It should be dishwasher-safe to allow for easy, frequent washing
• It should be the proper size for your child

Safe Pacifier Usage:

• Do not tie a pacifier around your child’s neck, hand, or crib
• Occasionally, inspect the pacifier for signs of overuse
• Do not use the pacifier to delay meals
• One should never dip the pacifier in sweet substances
• One should never substitute a bottle nipple, as it is a choking hazard