Is pacifier harmful, how to stop using it?
⚡ Short answer: Pacifier use in babies is common and generally harmless (it can even reduce SIDS risk during sleep); the ideal age to stop is 12-18 months, as prolonged use can affect tooth development.
Anonymous
6 aylık bebek annesi · Development
Is pacifier use harmful? My baby has become so dependent on it, how can I help him stop?
Maiyko AI ADVISOR
The real reply from the in-app AI advisor
You don't need to worry about pacifier use; for your 6-month-old, using a pacifier is quite common and generally harmless. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) notes that pacifier use during sleep can reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). So him being dependent on it right now is not a problem — rather, it's a helpful tool that soothes him.
You don't need to rush into stopping the pacifier at 6 months. A good first step is to limit its use: give the pacifier only at bedtime, reduce daytime use. After your baby falls asleep, gently removing the pacifier teaches him self-soothing skills.
The ideal time to stop using a pacifier is generally between 12-18 months; 6 months is still early. For now, limiting it to times of need is sufficient. Prolonged use into your 2-3 year old years can affect tooth development.
⚕️ 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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