Why, When, and How to Wean Your Child from the Pacifier

Drs. Nicolas & Asp15 Jul 2025

A Parent's Guide from the Pediatric Dentists at Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers

Why Babies Love Pacifiers

Pacifiers serve as a source of comfort for many infants and toddlers. Sucking is a natural reflex, and pacifiers can help soothe, settle, and satisfy a baby’s need for non-nutritive sucking — especially during sleep or periods of distress.

The Benefits of Pacifier Use and When It Becomes a Problem

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) notes that pacifier use during sleep may reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), especially in the first 6 months of life. For this reason, pacifiers can be a helpful tool in infancy.

However, prolonged use — especially beyond age 2 — has been associated with negative effects on oral development, speech patterns, and airway health. That’s why weaning at the right time is essential.

When to Wean: What the Experts Recommend

According to the AAP and AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry):

Weaning should ideally begin between 12 and 18 months
Pacifier use should be discontinued by age 2, at the latest
After age 3, pacifier use is more likely to result in malocclusion (misalignment of teeth) and orthodontic issues

How Pacifiers Affect Oral Health

Pacifiers used beyond toddlerhood can:

Lead to an open bite or crossbite
Affect how the upper and lower jaws grow
Cause the tongue to rest low in the mouth, contributing to mouth breathing
Interfere with the proper development of speech sounds
Delay transition to more mature swallowing patterns

These effects are often reversible if the pacifier is stopped early, but intervention may be needed if habits persist.

Pacifier Weaning: Two Common Approaches

Every child is different, so what works for one might not work for another. It really comes down to your little one’s personality — and what fits best with your family’s daily routine.

Cold Turkey (Immediate Stop)

Some children can handle a sudden change. If your child is adaptable and you’re ready to go all in, removing the pacifier completely may work faster. Expect a few days of resistance — but often, children adjust quicker than expected.

Gradual Weaning

This method allows for a slower transition and may suit more sensitive or routine-driven toddlers.

Steps can include:

Limiting pacifier use to bedtime only
Removing it during naps, then eventually at night
Substituting with a transitional comfort object like a favorite soft toy or blanket

Tips for a Smooth Transition

Offer comfort alternatives: A cuddly stuffed animal, cozy blanket, or lullabies can help.
Use praise and positive reinforcement: Celebrate small wins when your child goes without the pacifier.
Involve your child: Let them "donate" their pacifier to a new baby or the “Pacifier Fairy” for added emotional closure.
Be consistent: Once the pacifier is gone, avoid reintroducing it — even during stressful moments.

Most importantly, be patient. It’s a big step for a little one, and your calm reassurance makes all the difference.

When to See a Pediatric Dentist

If your little one is over 2 and still attached to their pacifier — or if you're starting to notice changes in their teeth or speech — it might be time for a quick chat with a pediatric dentist.

At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, our specialist pediatric dentists are with you every step of the way — from baby teeth to confident big-kid smiles! We’re conveniently located across Dubai. Give us a call at 04 394 7777 to book an appointment.