A pacifier can bring instant comfort to babies when they feel restless or distressed, especially between feedings. Its calming effects lower their heart rate, blood pressure and stress level. Pacifiers also have many nicknames names, such as a binky, paci and hushie.
The office of Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA is a pediatric dental practice that’s dedicated to providing excellent personalized care. Our warm and welcoming experience for all youngsters and their parents makes us one of the most highly regarded in the area.
Despite their benefits, binkies must be used with caution. Keep these dos and don’ts in mind.
Use a one-piece paci. Many models have three separate parts: the handle, the mouth guard and the nipple. The mouth guard is supposed to prevent your child from putting any other piece of it in his (or her) mouth, swallowing it and choking on it. If the binky becomes disassembled, the mouth guard can’t do its job. The result could prove tragic. For that same reason, replace it if it’s wearing out.
Keep it clean. Sure, many parents have heard that very young infants will accumulate a strong immune system if they’re exposed to germs. But immune systems don’t mature until the babies reach about 6 months old. Until he reaches that age, put the hushie in the dishwasher every time you run it, or boil it in water once a week. After that half-year mark, clean it with just soapy water.
Don’t sugarcoat it. The lure of a binkie with real or artificial sugar on it is strong. The sweet stuff will harm their oral and overall health.
Let him decide. If your baby isn’t in the mood, don’t force the hushie on him. He may prefer to suck on his thumb or take a break from the binky.
Use food, not a pacifier. If he’s hungry, a pacifier won’t stifle his appetite—nor should you try to make it. Feed him and give him the binky only when he’s not hungry.
No strings attached. Some parents make binkies into necklaces so they’ll always be within their kids’ reach. It’s handy, but it can also pose numerous dangers to your baby.
When you visit Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA, you can be confident that your child will receive the finest and most advanced care. Please contact us for an appointment.
By Perry L. Jeffries, DDS and Associates, PA
August 28, 2023
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