Question
Can a pacifier be used to alleviate the habit of a two-month-old baby suckling their fingers? Are there any adverse effects of using a pacifier?
Answer
A pacifier can serve a similar purpose as the baby’s hand-sucking, helping to exercise the upper and lower jaws, facial muscles, and tongue. Although it is not directly related to bruxism, excessive use may be detrimental to the teeth during teething. Frequent sucking might lead to regurgitation and colic, but moderate use can help soothe the baby’s tension and enhance their sense of security. Without a pacifier, the baby might suck their fingers, increasing the risk of illness and potentially affecting the development of the gum line.