Scientific research has shown that pacifiers can help babies to better cope with distress and discomfort during stressful events, such as receiving vaccines or getting blood drawn. The act of sucking on a pacifier can help your little one calm and soothe themselves, especially if they suffer from colic or episodes of teething which can offer some relief to that discomfort. The problem comes in when children sit with the pacifier in their mouth for long periods of time, or beyond the 18month old age stage. There are many sites providing information for and against and many claim negative effects of pacifier use to be a “myth”, but my almost 30 years in Paediatric practice has shown me beyond any doubt that the impact of pacifiers and thumb sucking is not only very real, but extensive. And I am not only referring to effects on the teeth, but more importantly, on jaw development, sinus development, establishing mouth breathing and its extensive cascade of issues, posture development and even ability to concentrate and remain focused.