Although the jury is still out when it comes to the dangers of pacifiers, the American Dental Association explains that while a pacifier can keep a baby occupied while teething, it may cause some damage down the line.

Pacifiers have been a Godsend to parents for decades, but are they good for your infant? According to your Glen View Children’s Dentist, there are some pros and cons when it comes to pacifiers.

The Pros of Pacifiers

Less Risk of SIDS-Giving your baby a pacifier at night or during naptime can help prevent SIDS or sudden infant death syndrome. Although pediatricians aren’t quite sure why they work, statistics prove that they do.

Satisfies Needs-That suck reflex gets a welcome relief when a baby suckles a breast or sucks on a pacifier. However that desire to suck can last even after your infant has finished his or her meal or snack.

Self-Soothing-A pacifier can help infants control feelings, help relax and make your little ones feel secure. It’s a win win for both babies and parents.

The Dangers of Pacifiers

Eating Problems-Your baby may want to give up the pacifier at mealtime. Make sure to keep a schedule to prevent your baby from favoring the pacifier over breakfast.

Tooth Troubles-Long term pacifier use can cause tooth growth problems. However, if pacifier use is kept to a minimum, those growing teeth will usually correct themselves after 6 months of going off the pacifier.

After 24 months, tooth problems can begin to develop. Your baby’s bottom or top front teeth could tilt or slant. If a baby uses a pacifier after the age of four, real and long lasting effects can occur when the permanent teeth begin to erupt.

Ear Issues-In one study, infants and toddlers who used pacifiers got ear infections twice as often as children who did not. Again, keep pacifier use to a minimum to avoid the dangers of pacifiers.

If you would like more information regarding the dangers of pacifiers, call or click and talk to Chicago Children’s Dentist Dr. Jeffrey Gilmor.

Dr. Gilmor can examine your kids teeth and give you a better idea of what to expect if your infant has grown accustomed to his, “Binky,”

Call or click and schedule an appointment with Glenview Children’s Dentist Dr. Jeffrey Gilmore today.