Pacifier teeth is a condition that can occur in both children and adults. It is caused by prolonged use of a pacifier, which leads to teeth misalignment. Good thing is the condition can be treated by dental experts at your dental centre in Ottawa upon discovery. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, effects, damage, and treatment of pacifier teeth. We will also provide tips on how to prevent this condition from occurring.
What Are Pacifier Teeth?
Pacifier teeth, also known as nipple teeth or "baby" teeth, are a specific type of tooth deformity that affects the front four upper and lower central incisors. The term is usually reserved for those affected with this problem before their first birthday, as it may be rapidly corrected if caught early. If not detected early, surgery might be needed to correct the problem.
It is not known exactly what causes the teeth to grow in a straighter position, but it is thought that a significant force on a young child's mouth can do this. The most common reason for this force is the child sucking their thumb or a pacifier too much and/or at too high of an intensity. A pacifier can also cause this if it is too large for the child's mouth or if they use it beyond their first birthday when all of their primary teeth have erupted. There have been reports that some children are born with straight incisors, but this is very rare.
Causes of Pacifier Teeth
1) Overuse of Pacifiers and/or Thumbs
Since pacifiers are readily available and in high usage, it is likely for them to be overused, increasing the chances of having an altercation with teeth. Particularly in younger children, this habit usually starts at a young age when the child starts teething. This is normal as most babies tend to chew on things. However, it is essential to monitor the child and limit their usage of a pacifier or thumb to allow time for proper development of teeth which should happen by age three.
2) Genetics/Medical Conditions
Pacifier teeth syndrome is very rare, but some children do have this problem, and it can be inherited. Many other medical conditions can also cause pacifier teeth, including Down syndrome, cleft lip and palate, and others. Also, some babies have a small space between their two front teeth, which is called an "interdental papilla." This is a genetic trait and will pass from parents to children. If the gap is very large, it can cause problems with the alignment of your child's teeth as they come in.
Effects and Damage of Pacifier Teeth
1) Crooked/Crowded Teeth
Pacifier teeth can cause teeth to be crooked or crowded together. If your child has a crooked smile, the teeth will look misaligned, making them feel self-conscious. Crooked teeth can also make it hard for your child to chew and swallow, leading to problems with speech or dentition as they grow.
2) Biting Issues
Pacifier teeth can also lead to biting problems. If your child has a problem with their top front teeth, it can make it hard for them to bite down and chew food properly. This can result in an uneven bite and an inability to eat properly. Babies who have pacifier teeth will often have a narrow opening between their two front baby teeth, making it hard for them to take on solid foods.
3) Jaw Misalignment
If the top front teeth are crooked, the jaw often can't find the correct position, and it moves in the opposite direction of where it should. This will cause your child's jaw to be misaligned, leading to problems with chewing and swallowing.
Treatment for Pacifier Teeth
1) Weaning the Child Off A Pacifier
The first step in treatment is to wean your child off the pacifier. If your child goes through the terrible twos with a pacifier in his or her mouth, it's going to be hard to get them to give it up. It will take time, but if you allow them to use it occasionally, it will be easier to accept. Once your child is done with the pacifier for good, you will have already made great strides towards fixing his or her teeth.
2) Braces and Orthodontics
Braces and orthodontic treatment can be used to correct the misaligned teeth. The braces will hold the teeth in the correct position and strengthen them, which will make it easier for them to come in. In many cases, with advanced orthodontic treatment from the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa, it is possible to get the teeth to align independently by using elastics or rubber bands. This process is called "the timing technique" and is often very successful in correcting facial deformities caused by misaligned teeth.
If you suspect that your child may have developed, or is developing, pacifier teeth then it is essential that you schedule a dental check-up appointment with us at the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa. Contact us today!
