To dummy or not to dummy, this is a controversial subject in today’s world, though should be acknowledged as an individual choice. Everyone has an opinion or myth to share on dummies and at this time there is a distinct lack of strong evidence for or against the use of dummies.
We know that babies have a natural urge to suck and find this motion comforting, so why not give them a dummy to help them feel safe and happy. Some people believe it can cause crooked teeth, suppresses their appetite and can even stump speech patterns. Others say it confuses the baby for breastfeeding and the baby will often wean itself earlier than usual because of having a dummy. As we have stated, due to lack of strong evidence it is difficult to refute or support these claims though we can say, the sucking action on a dummy is different to that of latching on to breastfeed, though it has been frequently recommended that you don’t introduce a dummy until breastfeeding is fully established to ensure there won’t be any confusion for baby. You should never ever give a baby a dummy instead of feeding and if using a dummy you should always ensure your baby is not just hungry, tired or bored before giving the dummy to them. Always remember to sterilize the dummy and check it over for cracks and tears.
It can also be more damaging for a baby to suck their fingers as opposed to a dummy. Sucking fingers can in fact cause more damage to our baby’s teeth than what a dummy will. Therefore not all children will suffer misaligned teeth through a dummy. Don’t dip a dummy in honey or sugar before giving to a baby, this will definitely rot their teeth if used on a regular basis and is not necessary. If a baby feels they need a dummy, they will take it without the sweeteners, if they won’t take it then your baby doesn’t want a dummy!
Recently four different studies have found that dummies may be helpful in the prevention of SIDS. There are several reasons as to why it may help, however at this point in time Experts are unable to provide a recommendation to use dummies solely for this purpose. Further research needs to be undertaken before they can quantify this claim.
It is felt that dummies may impact on the learning of speech in little ones. At the age of around 4 months, babies start to experiment with sounds and it is claimed that a dummy prevents them from discovering this talent. I know that with my little boy – who absolutely adores his“dum dum”, that he was attempting to talk around his dummy hence preventing him from speaking properly. We have since limited his “dum dum” time to night time only. This has been a great success and he is now speaking freely. Not everyone finds it so easy to stop though and limiting the time baby has dummy is often the best way to start, but do it gradually, don’t just take dummy away from baby and never use this as punishment. Sometimes starting a star or reward chart can help with an older toddler to encourage them to do away with dummy.
Most importantly, it is your choice as to whether you feel it will help your baby and you as parents. Be selective with the amount of time baby has the dummy and monitor safe and effective uses if you do decide to give one to your baby and don’t feel guilty about them having one.
We would love to hear your thoughts & tips on dummies, please email
us and we may include them in upcoming newsletters.