The Air Force Safety Center is a Field Operating Agency with headquarters at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M.
The Finnish researchers are unsure why the use of a pacifier might lead to an ear infection, but theorized it may have something to do with the change in pressure equilibrium inside the ear caused by the sucking.
2. It can affect the shape of the teeth. I can often tell if a child is still using the pacifier at the 3 year visit. On exam, the teeth will be pushed forward and have a more exaggerated shape that often mimics the shape of the pacifier. If you stop the pacifier by 3, this molding will usually not be permanent. 3. The ADA (American Dental Association) recommends getting rid of the pacifier by the age of 4 to avoid long term dental complications. Permanent teeth start to come in at age 4. 4. Prolonged pacifier use may be associated with ear infections.