Non-nutritive sucking with a pacifier: pros and cons

Gen Dent. 2007 Jan-Feb;55(1):59-62; quiz 63, 79-80.

Abstract

The detrimental effects of prolonged pacifier use on the developing oral structures are often the primary focus of dental professionals; however, non-nutritive sucking with a pacifier has other consequences that include not only harmful effect but positive influences as well. This article will address some of the issues for consideration regarding the use of pacifiers and provide information for appropriate recommendations to parents of infants and toddlers regarding the use and cessation of non-nutritive sucking with a pacifier.

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Malocclusion / etiology
  • Pacifiers* / adverse effects
  • Sucking Behavior* / physiology
  • Sudden Infant Death / prevention & control