When should a baby's pacifier be stopped?
⚡ Short answer: The general pediatric view is that between 6-12 months, pacifier use can be helpful for sleep and calming, but the process of stopping should begin after 12-18 months.
Anonymous
bir anne · Sleep
When should a baby's pacifier be stopped?
Maiyko AI ADVISOR
The real reply from the in-app AI advisor
The general pediatric view is that between 6-12 months, pacifier use can be helpful for sleep and calming, but the process of stopping should begin after 12-18 months. If pacifier use continues past 2 years old, risks to tooth structure (open bite, crowding) and middle ear infections can increase.
Most effective strategies for stopping:
- Between 12-18 months, limit the pacifier to sleep only and remove it completely during the day
- Between 18-24 months, use the "pacifier fairy" or "you're growing up now" story to say goodbye
- Gradual reduction (cold turkey) is less traumatic than suddenly stopping
When deciding on the right time to stop, consider your baby's overall development, whether they're losing teeth, and whether there are big changes happening (new sibling, moving, starting daycare)—it's best to avoid stopping during these times.
⚕️ Health note: This answer is for general information only; it is not medical advice. Every baby is different — for decisions about your baby's health, consult your pediatrician.
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