Pacifier for a newborn – orthodontic or maybe dynamic?

A pacifier is one of the most popular accessories for babies and newborns. For many parents, it is an invaluable help in calming the child and relieving the pain during teething. However, choosing the right pacifier can be difficult because there are many different types available on the market. In this article, we will carefully analyze the differences between orthodontic and dynamic pacifiers and discuss the features that a pacifier for toddlers should have.

Should we give our baby a pacifier?

Before we start considering the types of pacifiers, it is worth considering whether we should give our baby a pacifier at all. This is an important issue because excessive and uncontrolled use of a pacifier may have a negative impact on the child’s developing oral cavity. Using a pacifier for too long may lead to malocclusion, shifting of teeth and other orthodontic problems.

It is worth remembering that a pacifier should only be a tool for calming the baby and should not replace breastfeeding or bottle feeding. It is also worth limiting the time of using a pacifier as the baby grows and develops.

What types of pacifiers do we have?

There are various types of pacifiers available on the market, but most often we can distinguish two main categories: orthodontic and dynamic pacifiers.

Orthodontic pacifiers

Orthodontic pacifiers are characterized by a specially designed shape that aims to minimize the risk of malocclusion in a child. These pacifiers have an asymmetrical shape that fits the natural structure of the baby’s mouth. Orthodontic pacifiers help maintain the correct position of the tongue and shape the appropriate bite.

Dynamic pacifiers

Dynamic pacifiers (also known as traditional pacifiers) have a more standard shape that is not specifically adapted to the structure of the baby’s mouth. These pacifiers are more similar to the shape of the nipple, which may be more comfortable for the baby, but does not necessarily support the development of proper bite.

Features that each of the above-mentioned pacifiers for babies should meet

Regardless of the choice of pacifier, there are certain features that every baby pacifier should meet:

1. Safety: The pacifier should be made of materials that are safe for the baby, free from harmful chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA).
2. Ease of cleaning: The pacifier should be easy to keep clean and disinfect. It should be washed regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria.
3. Appropriate size: When choosing a pacifier, pay attention to the appropriate size and size that will suit the child’s age and development.
4. Appropriate shape: The shape of the pacifier should be appropriately adapted to the child’s mouth, regardless of whether you choose an orthodontic or dynamic pacifier.

Your suggestions

Choosing a pacifier for your baby may be a challenge, but it is worth consulting a pediatrician or orthodontist who can advise on the right type of pacifier, taking into account the child’s individual needs and development.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in the topic of pacifiers for newborns, we also recommend reading our other articles on this topic:

• How to use a pacifier correctly?
• The development of the child’s oral cavity and the choice of pacifier
• Pacifier and baby’s oral health

Choosing a pacifier for your baby is an important decision that may affect its development and oral health. Therefore, it is worth taking the time to thoroughly understand the differences between orthodontic and dynamic pacifiers and choose the one that will best suit your child’s needs and comfort, while taking care of his or her orthodontic health.