Mouth Problems
Serious and rapid tooth decay can result if dummies are dipped in sugary substances such as honey, jam, and condensed milk, malt or vitamin C syrups. Sucking your child's dummy can also increase the risk of tooth decay by transferring bacteria from your mouth to the child's. Dummies may be a source of infection if they are shared by other children or picked up from the floor. Follow good hygiene procedures when using dummies and check that dummies are in good condition and meet safety approval ratings.
Things to Remember
- Dummy sucking is not thought to be a problem for dental care in the very early years, but should be stopped before permanent teeth appear in the mouth.
- Sucking can have permanent impacts on the mouth and teeth if it persists into school age.
- Dummies need to be clean, free of sugary substances and safe.
