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Are dummies good for your baby?

We have collated some science-based information and myth busters regarding the use of dummies.

If you’re a new mom or mom-to-be, the wellbeing of your little one is, without a doubt, your main goal and you want your baby to have a healthy development, both physically and emotionally. When it comes to dummies, there are a lot of theories and opinions out there. Are dummies good for your baby?

It is easy to feel uncertain or confused about the dummies'’ pros and cons, as it is hard to tell on which side of these theories the truth lies. But can we classify a dummy as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ for babies? 

Like for many other questions, there’s not a black or white answer to this one either. The use of a dummy can have a lot of benefits for your baby when used responsibly, following certain guidelines and the instructions for use. 
If you’re about to make up your mind about whether to use a dummy or not, keep on reading! We have collated some science-based information and myth busters regarding the use of dummies. Additionally, you can learn how and when a dummy can help your little one and in which occasions you may want to consider to hold the offering of a dummy.

A dummy can offer comfort when your baby is crying and/or agitated –Truth
Dummies can be very helpful to offer comfort to your little one during times of distress, as the action of suckling helps babies soothe themselves.¹

Dummies can be given to a breastfed baby –Truth
Dummies can be given to a healthy baby from birth. Studies have shown that the use of a dummy in healthy breastfeeding babies, started from birth or after lactation is established, did not impact significantly the frequency or duration of exclusive and partial breastfeeding up to four months of age.² However, you may want to consider introducing the dummy when you and your baby are already comfortable with breastfeeding. It is important that a dummy shouldn’t be used to replace or delay feeding time. 

Dummies may help reduce SIDS risk during napping and sleeping time –Truth
Scientific research has shown that the use of a dummy during sleep may offer protection against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).³ However, if your little one loses the dummy during sleep, there’s no need to put it back in the mouth.⁴  

Dummy affects teeth –Myth
When used responsibly and within the recommended time limits, dummies should not cause problems with dentition or misaligned teeth. Expert literature recommends limiting the time of use of the dummies to a maximum of six hours per day.⁵ Every child’s mouth and teeth develop differently. Use of dummies for children older than 24 months should be a decision made by each parent, based on consultation with a medical or dental healthcare provider. The American Academy of Paediatric Dentistry recommends that weaning should start at the latest by three years of age.⁶ We recommend to choose a dummy shape that supports oral development, usually signalled by the word ‘orthodontic’.  

Dummies can aid your baby with pain relief –Truth
Scientific evidence has shown that dummies can help babies better cope with distress and discomfort during minor painful events.¹ When babies get a vaccine or blood taken, the act of suckling on a dummy can help them calm and soothe themselves. When teething, your little one might feel very uncomfortable and experience aches and soreness. The dummy can offer some relief to the discomfort. Just pay attention to the condition of the dummy and replace it if it begins to look worn out.

Dummies cause colic –Myth
The cause for colics is still unknown, but there are some theories such as an immature digestive system, lactose intolerance, allergies, or changes in the normal bacteria of their digestive system. Swallowing additional air during feeding can aggravate the situation.⁷ It is often difficult to calm babies during a colic episode, they cry intensely and long, often with clenched fists and curled up legs. Symptoms usually start to improve around 10–12 weeks of life. One tip to help soothe your baby is to offer a dummy,⁸ as suckling can be soothing and help regulate your little one’s emotions.¹

Weaning can be difficult –Myth and Truth
Some babies have no problem giving up their dummy while others need more time to say goodbye. As a dummy provides comfort, babies can become attached to it. Weaning will be a learning and compromising experience for you and you little one. But with love and some patience you will manage to help your baby reach this life milestone. 

You now have a lot of useful information about dummies. If you feel that the dummy is a good option for your little one, start considering what the best one may be for your baby. There is a wide range of dummies available nowadays. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, such as a special size for newborns, one-piece dummies, 100% made of silicone, dummies for day or night time.