PSA FOR PACI-USING LITTLES..!
Prolonged use of pacifiers can damage your teeth.. it can misalign them or give you an openbite, also known as "pacifier teeth".. ! It can cause lisps, chewing issues, TMJ issues, and more strain on the back teeth.. ! It can also make you sick if not cleaned properly due to mold growth..
Harm reduction for those who still use pacis...!
Avoid sleeping with one.. While I know it's tempting to get sleepy and fall asleep with a paci in, it can actively worsen your teeth alignment, strain your jaw and also hurt you if you have any breathing issues.. ! So try to use your pacifier when you are awake , or take the time to put it away before falling asleep..!
Try to avoid hard bites... Relax your jaw when having a paci in to avoid jaw strain.. If you feel any jaw pain / clicking jaw , tooth pain / sensitivity , dificulty breathing when having a paci in , or bite changes - its recommended reduce your use for a while and maybe try some alternatives until you feel better...
Clean / replace frequently.. After prolonged use, the nipple can start to form micro-cracks and trap moisture/bacteria inside of it, which can grow and form into mold.. Make sure to clean your pacifiers frequently under warm water and some soap, let it dry and check for any cracks on the nipple.. If you notice any discoloration or cracks , it is recommended to stop using it to avoid getting sick from built up bacteria / time to replace..!
Here are some alternatives you can use instead of pacis..!
āFood Pacifiersā ! These are pacifiers with small holes, originally designed to introduce babies to soft foods... Theyāre a popular alternative because the silicone is much thinner and softer than normal pacifiers, making them lower risk for teeth and jaw strain...! The one downside is that due to the softer material, theyāre more prone to tearing or breaking...
Silicone Chewelry ! Silicone chewelry is specifically designed to be chewed on, making it a safer oral sensory option...! Itās softer, flexible, and prevents openbites .. ! Itās important to choose 100% food-grade silicone, as this material is the safest for oral use.... Chewelry is also durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean, especially since many designs are simple and solid in shape... :^)