Pacifiers and Your Child’s Development | Pediatric Dentist in Lewisville

Pacifiers and Your Child’s Development | Pediatric Dentist in Lewisville

PEDIATRIC DENTIST IN LEWISVILLE, TX
Pediatric Dentist 75067
Posted on March 15, 2023
Pediatric Dentist 75067

Many parents don’t realize that babies derive comfort from non-nutritive sucking. It’s been shown that some babies begin to self-soothe by sucking on their fingers or thumbs even before birth.  By allowing your child a pacifier, you may be able to more easily break the habit as the child reaches an age where this self-soothing behavior is no longer needed, by removing or cutting the pacifier. If a child learns to self-soothe by thumb sucking, it may be more difficult to break this habit.  

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, If your child is still using a pacifier at the age of 3, the habit should be discouraged. This is because the upper front teeth may tip outward or come in improperly as a result. If you’re unsure if your child’s pacifier or thumb-sucking habit is interfering with the healthy development of teeth and jaws, please contact us. We’re happy to advise you with behavior modification techniques.  

Here are a few additional guidelines for pacifier use:  

  • Never dip the pacifier into a sweet substance such as honey. 
  • Do not use a string, ribbon or cord to secure the pacifier to clothes or cribs. 
  • The pacifier shield should be larger than the child’s mouth. 
  • Discontinue use if the pacifier fits into the child’s mouth.  
  • Discard pacifiers that are worn or deteriorating 
  • Do not allow the child to sleep with the pacifier.  

Remember, the AAPD recommends your child’s first visit with a pediatric dentist by the age of 1 or with the eruption of the first tooth. If you’ve yet to find your dental home, we welcome you to become a part of our dental family.  

Lewisville Kids Dentistry
Phone: (972) 436-9121
501 S Stemmons Fwy
Lewisville, TX 75067

Read Our Lewisville Pediatric Dental News

PEDIATRIC DENTIST in Lewisville, TX

The Connection Between Oral Health...

April 23rd 2025

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a child’s overall well-being. The state of a child’s dental health can influence more than just the teeth and gums; it significantly affects their physical and emotional health as well. This connection underscores the importance of finding a reputable pediatric dentist. For families in Lewisville, choosing a specialized...
Read More

Understanding the Teething Process and...

April 21st 2025

The teething phase can be a challenging period for both infants and their caregivers. As the first set of teeth begins to emerge, infants may experience discomfort, irritability, and changes in behavior. It is essential for parents to understand this natural process to provide the best support for their young ones. Lewisville Kids Dentistry, located...
Read More

The Effects of Thumb Sucking...

April 18th 2025

Thumb sucking is a common habit among young children that can have significant impacts on dental development. While it may provide comfort to toddlers, continued thumb sucking beyond the age of three can lead to dental issues that affect teeth alignment and jaw development. Understanding these impacts is crucial for parents concerned about their child’s...
Read More