Difference Between Pacifier And Teether [5 Factors to Consider]

In the early stages of life and development, parents will go to great lengths to soothe and calm their infants. Pacifiers, soothers, dummies, and teethers are some of the most common tools for soothing an infant.

Parents need to understand the differences between teether vs pacifier if they want to find the best solution for their child.

However, you should be aware of some significant distinctions. Let's look at a few of the critical differences between the two.

5 Differences Between Pacifier And Teethers

While pacifiers go in the baby's mouth, teethers sit on the baby's face until it is time to use them. A Pacifier to soothe the baby's discomfort is a great way to do this.

To soothe an infant, pacifiers can be used. The most common materials for pacifiers are rubber, plastic, or silicone, and they have been around for hundreds of years.

This includes wooden ones as well. For teething babies, pacifiers serve an important purpose.

On the other hand, some parents believe teethers are more beneficial for their children than pacifiers. Teething aids are used to alleviate the pain that comes with teething.

Rubber, plastic, or silicone are the most common materials. Wood is often made from wood! Sometimes, an infant is old enough to put the teether in their mouth. For the sake of their child, it is up to parents to decide.

Pacifier vs Teether: Which One Is The Best

Although teethers and pacifiers can help soothe a baby, each has its advantages. The key to calming your baby without endangering their oral health is finding the right one.

Before making a decision, learn about the advantages and disadvantages of teethers and pacifiers.

Pros and Cons of Pacifier

Pros

• Babies with colic may benefit from pacifiers that reduce gas and spit-up.
• It may lessen the fussiness of the infant during feeding.
• They are used to soothe a crying or fussy baby when they need to be calmed.
• Because it provides them with a sense of security, most newborns enjoy having one in their mouths.
• Early weaning can benefit from the use of this product.
• Pacifiers aid in the consumption of milk.
• Early weaning is less likely with this method.
• If the baby is at least four months old, they are safe to use.

Cons

• Some babies prefer a Teether over a pacifier because they feel more secure.
• When a baby is over four months old, excessive sucking on the pacifier might contribute to pacifier teeth issues later in life.
• Because a pacifier is placed in a child's mouth, it may need to be replaced more frequently than a Teether.
• The child's age is essential in deciding whether or not to give them a pacifier.

Pros and Cons of Teether

Pros

• Sore gums can be alleviated with the use of a teether.
• They come in a variety of colors and textures.
• Babies can safely chew on teddy bears.
• The baby's mouth is not the proper place for a teether.
• Teethers ease a baby's teething discomfort.

Cons

• An infant's habitual use could make them dependent on one while sleeping.
• If not cleaned properly, it can harbor a lot of germs.
• A baby can swallow a Teether if it is bitten down too hard, choking.
• Some babies prefer a pacifier to a Teether because it is more familiar.

When Should You Use a Pacifier?

After four months, you are allowed to use a pacifier. This can lead to a delay in the baby's development and the development of an oral aversion before four months of age. Too early pacifier use can result in dental issues such as displaced or misaligned teeth later in life.

Using a pacifier to soothe a fussy baby during feeding is recommended. This is because it releases calming hormones into the blood, which can help improve milk intake. It also reduces the likelihood of premature weaning.

When Should You Use a Teether?

Teething usually begins between four and six months of age. No two newborns are indeed precisely alike.

When it comes to teeth, some children can begin the process much earlier than others.

Teething should be started as soon as a baby's gums begin to itch, and teethers should be removed by the time the child is two, according to most pediatricians and practitioners.

Tips to Choose the Right Pacifier

Safety should be the most crucial consideration when selecting gadgets for a baby.

Ensure all soothers are safe for the baby and will not suffocate or choke them. As a result, the first step in selecting the ideal soother is determining the appropriate measurement.

• Most brands offer pacifiers in specific age ranges, such as 0-6 months, 6-18 months, and 18 months and older.
• Smaller pacifiers are preferable for newborns, while larger pacifiers are better suited for older babies.
• Finding a soother with the proper shape, something comfortable for the baby to suckle, is also essential.
• Material is the last thing to take into account. Some pacifiers are made of food-safe silicone, latex, or natural rubber, while others are made of BPA-free plastic. Choosing a pacifier before the baby is born is not recommended.

Parents may experiment with various styles before their child settles on a favorite.

Tips to Choose the Right Teether

Safety is the most important consideration when purchasing a teether for a baby.

It is, after all, a device that is meant to be placed in an infant's mouth. The use of standard toys as teething toys is a bad idea.

• Any teething product with BPA, phthalates, or PVC should be avoided. Other than that, there are numerous variations in the design and materials of teethers.
• Parents should seek out easy products for children to grasp and hold.
• Again, it's a good idea to experiment with a few options to see which one your baby prefers.

Conclusion

Let's wrap up our discussion of pacifiers vs. teethers.

Parents often resort to using pacifiers or teething toys to ease a baby's teething discomfort.

The primary difference between pacifier and teether is that pacifiers are designed to be placed in the mouth of the child and held there, whereas teethers are more commonly used in this manner.

For more information on other baby products, please check out our other blog posts, and I hope you'll find some great products for your little one!