Medical Myth or Fact #3 – The Truth About Pacifiers

🍼❌ Think pacifiers will spoil your baby or ruin their teeth? Let’s bust those myths! Discover the real facts about pacifier use and how they can actually benefit your little one. Knowledge is key—let’s get informed! #MedicalMyths #PacifierFacts #ParentingWisdom

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PACIFIER USE?

In addition to self-soothing, pacifier use while sleeping reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) for term and preterm infants.

Use of pacifiers with or without sugar reduces pain for common medical procedures such as injections in infants younger than 3 months.

Pacifiers also can improve the equalization of middle ear pressure during air travel.

WHAT TYPE OF PACIFIER SHOULD BE RECOMMENDED?

It is recommend use of a one-piece, dishwasher safe, unsweetened pacifier with a shield at least 3 cm in diameter that the child prefers.

DO CHILDREN WHO USE PACIFIERS HAVE MORE CARIES?

Children who use unsweetened pacifiers do not have more caries. When sugar is added to the pacifiers (such as with soda or fruit juice), caries risk increases significantly.

HOW DOES PACIFIER USE AFFECT BREASTFEEDING?

The introduction of pacifiers once breastfeeding has been well established does not interfere with a healthy breastfeeding relationship.

DOES PACIFIER USE DELAY SPEECH DEVELOPMENT?

Speech delay has not been associated consistently with any length of pacifier use.

WHEN SHOULD CHILDREN BE WEANED FROM PACIFIERS?

The ideal age for weaning is not known. Guidelines suggest that weaning children from pacifiers between 6 and 12 months of age, and especially after 1 year of use, balances benefits with the reduction of long-term risk.

HOW SHOULD CHILDREN BE WEANED FROM PACIFIERS?

Children typically stop using pacifiers on their own, but if needed, caregivers should support weaning via positive reinforcement with star charts, positive rewards, distraction, and gentle reminders. Negative reinforcement, such as teasing, harsh criticism, or punishment, should be avoided.

Conclusion

The myth that pacifiers will spoil your baby or lead to dental problems is often overstated. When used appropriately, pacifiers can be a helpful tool for soothing infants and promoting safety during sleep. As with any parenting decision, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and consult with your doctor for personalized advice.

Keep calm and keep parenting! 🍼✨❤️

Reference: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2025/0300/pacifiers.html

Check out the rest of Medical Myth or Fact Series!

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