As pediatric dentists at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we receive a lot of questions about safe pacifier use with children. We follow the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists' recommendations. Sucking on a thumb or pacifier is natural for young children and most children will stop on their own. We generally discourage the use of pacifiers after age 3.
Here are some other safe pacifier tips to follow:
- Never tie a cord, ribbon or string between a pacifier and a child's body or a crib. It can become a strangulation hazard.
- If the child can fit the entire pacifier into his/her mouth, discard it. Your child could choke on it.
- If the pacifier bulb has become cracked, sticky, or worn, replace it with a new one.
As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care. Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.
About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists
Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!