Dott. Trapani Di Maio
Pacifier and teeth: the pacifier is a useful tool for calming the newborn and satisfying the natural sucking reflex. However, its prolonged use can negatively affect the development of the mouth, palate and dental arches.
Sucking continued beyond 12-18 months introduces a rigid object into the mouth precisely at the moment in which the jaw bones are fully developing. This can alter correct skeletal growth and lead to permanent dental and functional problems.
The consequences of prolonged use of a pacifier on the teeth
The pacifier, if used beyond the age of one and a half, can cause alterations in the development of the jaw bones and interfere with the correct positioning of the teeth.
Let’s see in detail on which floors the problems occur.
Damage on the transverse plane: narrow palate
During growth, the tongue plays a fundamental role in the development of the upper arch, as it exerts a push that favors the widening of the palate.
When the pacifier comes between the tongue and the palate:
- The tongue cannot perform its function properly
- The upper arch does not develop in width
- The palate narrows, appearing narrower than the lower arch
Damage in the sagittal plane: protruding front teeth
Incorrect or excessively prolonged use of the pacifier can cause:
- An excessive protrusion of the upper arch compared to the lower one
- An altered dental profile, resulting in aesthetic and functional problems
Damage on the vertical plane: open bite
Constantly placing the pacifier between the arches can cause:
- Anterior open bite: with closed teeth, the incisors do not touch
- Difficulty swallowing and speaking
- Tendency to push the tongue forward
At what age should you remove your pacifier?
- Up to 12-18 months: Pacifier use is generally considered safe and potential damage resolves spontaneously.
- After 2 years: the risks of dento-skeletal alterations increase.
- After 3 years: the intervention of an orthodontist is often necessary to correct structural damage.
Pacifier or finger? Even the finger can create the same dental problems
Finger, lip or tongue sucking can cause similar damage to the pacifier, sometimes even more difficult to correct, because:
It is more difficult to stop spontaneously
It is often associated with a deeper emotional connection.
The pacifier can be used in moderation and discontinued by 18-24 months of age. Prolonging its use beyond this threshold exposes the child to the risk of orthodontic and functional problems.
In case of doubt, it is always advisable to contact a pediatric dentist or orthodontic specialist to evaluate the situation and, if necessary, establish early treatment.