Do Dummies Affect Teeth?

For many children, sucking a dummy, thumb or finger can cause changes to the teeth and jaws. The younger the age at which a child stops sucking a dummy, the more likely their teeth and jaws will correct the growth problems naturally.

At what age do Dummies affect teeth?

Will a dummy or thumb sucking harm my child's teeth? No, but they will encourage an open bite, which is when teeth move to make space for the dummy or thumb. They may also affect speech development. That's why you should avoid using dummies after your child reaches 12 months old.

Does having a dummy affect adult teeth?

Does a dummy have the same effect as a thumb or finger sucking habit? Dummy (pacifier) sucking can also move the baby teeth. Dummies appear to cause fewer problems as this habit normally stops before the adult teeth appear at age 7. ‡ As with all habits, the longer it lasts, the harder it is to stop!