Choice of Pacifiers and Nipples

To learn more about the positive and negative effects of the pacifier and thumb, read the previous entry Pacifier or Thumb?

You have to choose the pacifier or nipple based on your baby. It will be different if they’re premature, if they have a small mouth, a deep palate and based on their age of course.

Here is advice from an expert that I met:

1. The external ring of the pacifier must have a concave rather than flat form (figure 1).	Figure 1
2. The neck where the lips are positioned must be oval or flat rather than round or circular (figure 2).	Figure 2
3. The pacifier must be inflated on top for the palate and must be bevelled below to free their tongue and promote the right positioning.
4. The baby must close their mouth around the pacifier (and nipple) to properly breath via their nose and stimulate the development of their nasal structures.
5. The baby’s lips must not cover the ring neck (figure 3).	Figure 3
6. Change the pacifier (and nipple) regularly based on the baby’s age, even if there are no signs of product deterioration. The Pediatric Society recommends changing the pacifier after two months of use despite the condition.
7. Change the pacifier (and nipple) if you note signs of deterioration (change in colour, cracks or sticky). Health Canada suggests changing pacifiers and nipples every two months.
8. Even if the baby reacts to a change in pacifier, be persistent! It’s normal that they will have to adjust and make an effort…and they won’t always be happy immediately!
9. Never attach the pacifier around the baby’s neck to avoid risks of strangulation.
10. Avoid teething pacifiers as they’re too big, too rigid and not adapted to your baby’s mouth. Use teething rings instead.