Re: pacifiers: review of risks vs benefits

(Dent Update 2013; 40: 92–101)

I am glad you have covered this important dental and general health issue because, as dentists, we witness the many detrimental effects of dummy use. Firstly, they can lead to malocclusions such as anterior open bite and may distort a child's facial appearance. Secondly, a child's linguistic development is affected, to the point where they present to practice usually shy and timid, indeed unable to respond to the simplest of questions regarding name and age. Furthermore, toddlers, as a result of prolonged dummy use, may appear malnourished owing to the non-nutritive nature of the dummy-sucking habit.

Shockingly, we have all witnessed a mother replace a dropped dummy into a child's mouth, having sucked on it herself. This is not only a basic hygiene concern but sets a bad example to children and introduces needless infection risk. Upon discussion with parents, many are unaware of the potential negative long-term effects and they begin to consider stopping the habit. They are particularly concerned about delays in the child's speech, and communicative development.