Most pediatric dentists, including our team at Monarch Dentistry, recommend that children begin to wean off pacifiers around 6 months to 1 year, and completely stop by age 2 at the latest.

Here’s a basic timeline to keep in mind:

0–6 Months: Pacifiers can be beneficial and are generally safe.

6–12 Months: Begin weaning; encourage other self-soothing methods.

12–24 Months: Aim to fully eliminate pacifier use during this window.

After Age 2: Prolonged use may start to negatively affect the mouth and jaw.

What Happens If Kids Use Pacifiers Too Long?
While pacifiers aren’t harmful in early infancy, extended use—especially beyond age 2—can start to impact the development of your child’s mouth, teeth, and jaw.

Common oral issues include:

1. Misaligned Teeth (Open Bite or Overbite)
The constant pressure of a pacifier against the developing teeth and jaw can cause the front teeth to slant outward or not meet properly when biting.

2. Changes in Jaw Shape
Extended pacifier use can interfere with the natural growth of the upper and lower jaw, sometimes resulting in the need for orthodontic treatment later.

3. Speech Development Delays
Pacifiers can restrict tongue movement and lead to speech issues like lisps or delayed articulation if used during the critical period of language development.

4. Ear Infections
Some studies have linked pacifier use with a higher risk of middle ear infections in toddlers, especially when used during sleep.

Transitioning away from the pacifier can be tough, but it’s worth it for your child’s dental health. Every child is different, and we’re here to help guide you through each stage of their dental development. If you’re concerned about your child’s pacifier use, tooth alignment, or speech, our friendly team can evaluate their oral health and