by Maura Clegg

Created on: February 10, 2007   Last Updated: April 25, 2007

Are pacifiers good for children? We all know that pacifiers can be great for parents, they soothe a crying child and maybe give you a few more minutes of quiet before the inevitable eruption of wails that it forthcoming.

Everyone has read or heard somewhere that a pacifier will damage a child's gums or teeth, but has this been proven scientifically? I haven't read any studies on the subject; but I have first hand knowledge.

I had a pacifier for probably longer than anyone should have; I admit (sheepishly) that I had a pacifier until I was five. I have been told that I went so far as to hide them around my room so I could have them when I wanted them. I can tell you that I was not one of those five year olds walking around the store with a binky sticking out of my mouth. I used it at bedtime, and most likely when sick. It was used at times when I decided I needed comfort. I had no extrodinary orthodontic troubles, no rotted teeth, and no speech impediment. So, in my own personal experience the pacifier did not harm me physically, or emotionally.

My little sister on the other hand sucked her thumb with fervor. This caused her a couple of problems; she needed much orthodontic work, and she also had a callus of sorts on her thumb that would bleed because it was do dry at times.

Also, in many cases a parent can limit pacifier use by removing them from sight, but a thumb is always attached and at the ready. Our first foster daughter had a pacifier, and by the time she was fifteen months old she would only ask for it when she was ready to settle down to sleep, as opposed to the near constant use of a few months before.

A couple that I know took the pacifier from their daughter right around her second birthday. Within days of the removal this child reverted to not using the potty, and also to stuttering. The parents were concerned (rightfully so) and called the doctor. The doctor recommended given the pacifier back and within days all was back to normal, and the little girl gave it up herself several months later with no ill effects.

I would say that if a child wants, or needs, the comfort of a pacifier there is no reason to with hold it from them. It is the one thing they have known since they were in the womb and it can go far in soothing them from what they think they need soothing from

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