Pros and Cons of Pacifier for Newborn

Last reviewed: November 6, 2026. Checked against current guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org) and Mayo Clinic.

In this article, we will take a look at the pros and cons of using pacifiers for newborns. By the end of it, you will be able to make an informed decision about whether or not to introduce a pacifier into your child’s life.

Pros and Cons of Pacifier for Newborn

First let’s take a look at the pros of using pacifiers:

Pros of Using Pacifiers

1. It Can Soothe a Fussy Infant

A pacifier can be a soothing tool for a fussy infant. Many babies find sucking calming, and a pacifier may help settle a fussy baby between feedings. Offer it after or between feedings, though, not as the first response to crying. Crying is often a sign your baby is hungry.

2. It May Help Reduce the Risk of SIDS

Offering a pacifier at nap time and bedtime may help reduce the risk of SIDS, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends it. The exact reason is not known. If your baby is breastfed, wait until breastfeeding is going well before offering one. If the pacifier falls out after your baby is asleep, you don’t need to put it back in. Don’t force it if your baby doesn’t want it.

3. It Can Help Babies Sleep Better

A pacifier may help a baby who has trouble settling down to fall asleep. This may be due to the fact that a pacifier can help soothe a fussy baby and promote relaxation. It can help babies get to sleep, although some babies wake and cry when it falls out.

4. It Acts As a Temporary Distraction

A pacifier can act as a temporary distraction for a baby who is teething or experiencing discomfort. This can provide some relief for both the baby and the parent. Babies need to be distracted for different things and pacifiers can be the perfect item for that.

5. They Can Ease the Discomfort for Kids When They Are On Long Trip

Pacifiers can also be helpful on airplane trips. Babies can’t pop their ears on purpose, and sucking may help ease ear discomfort from changes in air pressure. This can make for a more pleasant experience for both the child and the parent.

6. They Provide Pain Relief

Sucking on a pacifier can also help comfort babies during and after shots, blood tests and other medical procedures.

Cons of Using Pacifiers

Now let’s take a look at the cons of using pacifiers:

1. Pacifiers Can Cause Dental Problems

One of the biggest concerns about pacifier use is that it can cause dental problems. Normal pacifier use in the first few years usually doesn’t cause lasting problems. But long-term use, especially after age 2 to 4, can affect how the teeth line up. Never dip a pacifier in sugar, syrup or honey. Sweet coatings can cause cavities, and honey must never be given to babies under 12 months because it can cause infant botulism.

2. They Can Cause Speech Problems

Another concern with pacifier use is that it may affect speech. Some experts believe that very frequent or prolonged use of pacifiers in toddlers may get in the way of babbling and talking, so it’s a good idea to limit pacifier use as your child gets older.

3. They Can Increase the Risk of Ear Infections

Pacifier use has also been linked to an increased risk of ear infections. Middle ear infections are least common from birth to 6 months, so this matters more as your baby gets older.

4. They Can Be Difficult to Wean Off of

Once a baby becomes attached to their pacifier, it can be difficult to wean them off of it. Some babies may become agitated or cry when they are not allowed to use their pacifier. This can make the process of weaning them off of it more difficult. Most children stop on their own between ages 2 and 4.

5. Pacifiers Can Have a Lot of Bacteria on Them If They Are Not Stored or Cleaned Properly

If a pacifier is not stored or cleaned properly, it can collect germs. Until about 6 months, boil pacifiers or clean them in the dishwasher. After that, wash them with soap and water. Don’t clean a pacifier by putting it in your own mouth, as this can spread germs. Replace pacifiers often, and throw them away if they are discolored, cracked or torn.

6. A Pacifier Can Hide Hunger

A pacifier doesn’t cause colic, but it shouldn’t be used to delay or replace a feeding. If your baby is showing hunger cues, like rooting or sucking on their hands, feed them first.

7. Babies May Get Too Dependent On Pacifiers

Some experts also believe that babies can get too dependent on pacifiers. If a baby relies on a pacifier to soothe them, they may not be able to calm down or relax without it. This can be difficult for parents when they are trying to wean their child off of the pacifier.

8. Some Pacifiers Are Not Safe

Pacifiers don’t contain calories, so they won’t cause weight gain. But unsafe pacifiers can be a choking or strangulation risk. Choose a one-piece pacifier that can’t come apart, with a firm shield at least 1.5 inches wide that has air holes. Use the right size for your baby’s age. Never tie a pacifier to a crib, your baby’s neck or hand, or attach it to a cord or strap. Don’t use a bottle nipple as a pacifier.

As you can see, there are both pros and cons to using pacifiers. It is up to each individual parent to decide whether or not they want to use them. If you do choose to use a pacifier, make sure that you are using one that is safe and clean, and talk to your pediatrician or dentist about weaning as your child grows.

This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. Always contact your pediatrician with questions about your baby’s health.