What is an anatomical soother?
Anatomical soothers are designed to adapt optimally to the baby's mouth. Unlike traditional pacifiers, its asymmetrical shape respects the natural development of the palate, teeth and gums. This feature promotes more natural, comfortable sucking, reducing the risk of future dental problems.
Why choose an anatomical soother for your baby?
Opting for an anatomical soother is beneficial for several reasons:
At what age can a baby be given an anatomical soother?
Anatomical soothers can be introduced from birth. However, it is advisable to consult a paediatrician to determine the best time to start using a pacifier, based on the child's individual needs and oral development.
How do I care for a pacifier?
Maintaining a pacifier is simple, but crucial to your baby's health:
What materials are used to manufacture anatomical soothers?
Anatomical soothers are generally made from high-quality silicone or latex. Silicone is appreciated for its durability and ease of cleaning, while latex is often chosen for its suppleness and natural comfort. It's important to choose a material suited to your child's sensitivity, especially if he or she has allergies.
What's the difference between an anatomical and an orthodontic soother?
Although the terms "anatomical" and "orthodontic" are often used interchangeably in the context of pacifiers, there are important nuances. An anatomical pacifier is designed to mimic the shape of the mother's breast, promoting a natural transition for the baby. In contrast, an orthodontic pacifier has a flatter shape and is specifically designed to minimize pressure on the developing teeth and palate, reducing the risk of long-term dental problems.
Are anatomical soothers recommended by health professionals?
Many pediatricians and pediatric dentists recommend the use of anatomical pacifiers because of their design, which is conducive to children's natural oral development. However, it is essential to follow the specific advice of your healthcare professional, as individual needs may vary depending on various factors such as breastfeeding, sucking preferences and the child's dental development.
Can an anatomical soother be used at night?
The use of an anatomical soother during sleep is generally considered safe as long as the soother is properly cared for and the child is monitored regularly. It is important to ensure that the pacifier is always clean and in good condition to avoid any risk of choking. It is also advisable not to attach cords or chains to the pacifier during sleep, to avoid the risk of strangulation.
How to choose the right size of anatomic soother?
The size of the pacifier should correspond to the age and size of the child's mouth. Manufacturers generally offer different sizes adapted to specific age groups:
When should I stop using an anatomical soother?
It's advisable to start weaning your child off the anatomical soother between the ages of 2 and 4 to prevent long-term dental problems and encourage the development of verbal communication skills. Weaning should be gradual and adapted to the child's ability to cope with the change. Strategies may include limiting pacifier use to certain times of the day, or offering alternative reassurance at times when the child habitually reaches for the pacifier.