Many parents give their babies pacifiers to soothe them, help them sleep, or just generally out of habit. While pacifiers can be helpful in the early years, using them for longer than age 2 can affect how a child’s teeth and jaw grow.
Excessive use of a pacifier can lead to front teeth sticking out, creating dental issues like malocclusion and speech problems. However, with early action and prompt care, these pacifier-related issues can be treated. Read this blog to get your answers!
How Pacifier Use Affects Teeth Growth
A child’s jaw is soft and flexible in the early years. When a pacifier is in the mouth for long periods, it puts constant pressure on the teeth and palate.
Over time, this pressure can change the shape of the jaw, making the front teeth stick out. The upper and lower teeth may no longer touch when the mouth closes.
The longer the habit continues, the higher the chance that the changes become permanent.
Common Signs of Pacifier Teeth
The main and most visible signs of pacifier teeth are when the front teeth do not sit properly on top of the bottom teeth – they stick out when biting down. The upper teeth may stick out more than normal.
In some cases, chewing may feel uncomfortable. In some children, prolonged pacifier use may contribute to speech difficulties.
Can Pacifier Teeth Fix Themselves?
Yes, in many cases they can. If a child stops using a pacifier early, like age 2 or 3, the teeth often move back into place on their own. The jaw continues to grow and correct itself naturally.
Prolonged use beyond age 2 or 3 increases the risk of pacifier teeth positions becoming permanent.
Treatment Options for Pacifier Teeth
There are multiple ways to address pacifier teeth. If you suspect it in your child, the first thing to do is to schedule a dentist’s visit. A dentist will examine your child’s teeth and jaw. In mild cases, no treatment is needed, and you may only need to stop pacifier use completely. The teeth may slowly move back on their own.
If there are no improvements whatsoever, orthodontic treatment may be recommended. This can include braces, and even clear aligners designed for children, or devices like palatal expanders that help widen the upper jaw. However, the choice of treatment will depend on factors such as the child’s age and the severity of pacifier teeth.
After treatment, retainers are typically used at night to keep the teeth in place as the child grows.
Final Thoughts
Pacifier teeth are common, but they are also preventable and treatable. It is recommended to limit its use if your child is over 2 years of age, as the child’s jaw is soft and flexible at that time. While minor flaws can fix themselves, severe cases may need orthodontic treatment, including aligners, braces, or palatal expanders.
If your child has developed pacifier teeth, talk to pediatric dentists at Flourish Pediatric Dentistry about possible treatments. Call us at (281) 394-2520 to book your appointment.