Will Using a Pacifier Damage My Toddler's Teeth?

Pacifiers often save the day during those tough early months of parenting. They calm babies, help them sleep, and provide comfort when emotions run high. Many parents rely on them to settle fussy infants. But as your baby becomes a toddler, you might start wondering—can that same pacifier start causing dental problems? The short answer: yes, it can. Let’s break it down.

The experienced pediatric dentists at My Kidz Dentist in Phoenix, Arizona, are here to help you understand the impact that pacifiers can have on your toddler’s teeth.  

Pacifiers affect how your toddler’s mouth develops

Pacifiers serve a helpful purpose during infancy. They offer comfort and may even lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). But as toddlers grow, their mouths and jaws change quickly, and that’s where problems can start.

If your child keeps sucking on a pacifier past the age of 2, that habit can begin to reshape their bite. The constant pressure from sucking may push the upper front teeth forward or prevent them from coming in properly. We refer to this as an “open bite,” which means the top and bottom teeth don’t touch when your child closes their mouth.

Having an open bite affects how their smile looks and can also cause long-term dental and speech concerns.

When pacifier use becomes risky

You should consider weaning your child off the pacifier by around 12 to 18 months. By age 2, the risk of dental problems begins to rise. At this stage, your toddler’s mouth starts developing more rapidly, and extended sucking habits can shift teeth out of alignment.

If your child continues using a pacifier at age 3 or 4, they face a much higher chance of needing braces or other orthodontic care later on. You might also see speech delays or changes in how the roof of the mouth forms.

Earlier weaning gives your child a better shot at a healthy, natural bite.

Not every child develops issues

Some toddlers use pacifiers without developing any noticeable dental problems. Several factors influence this, including your child’s genetics, how often they suck, and the type of pacifier they use. If your toddler only uses it during naps and bedtime, they face less risk than a child who uses it all day.

Orthodontic-style pacifiers place less pressure on developing mouths, making them a better choice. Still, no design completely eliminates the risks of prolonged use.

How to wean your child off the pacifier

You don’t need to turn this into a power struggle. Weaning often works best when you stay calm, patient, and consistent.

Here are a few tried-and-true strategies:

• Allow pacifier use only at bedtime and naps to start
  
  
• Offer comfort items like a blanket or stuffed animal instead
  
  
• Reward your toddler with small treats or praise when they go without it
  
  
• Stay positive. Focus on progress, not setbacks
  
  
• Introduce a fun concept like the “pacifier fairy,” who trades pacifiers for a special gift.
  
  

Try not to start weaning during big transitions, such as moving or beginning daycare. Your child may rely on familiar comforts during those times.

When you should visit the dentist

If your toddler still uses a pacifier after their second birthday or if you notice their teeth shifting, call our office or book an appointment online, and let us help you. We can examine their mouth and suggest next steps to prevent long-term problems.

Early visits can catch small issues before they grow into bigger ones. You don’t need to wait until something feels “wrong.” A quick check-up provides peace of mind and helps your child develop healthy habits from an early age.