Babies soothe and nourish themselves by sucking. It is better to use a pacifier for soothing than letting them use their finger or thumb, as pacifiers can be taken away.

Pacifiers are less likely to cause a malocclusion (misalignment of teeth) and can usually be discontinued at an earlier age. Whereas thumbsuckers may continue the habit until 3-5 years of age.

If your child begins to suck their fingers or thumbs in the first 3 months of life you can try to introduce a pacifier and try to only use the pacifier when necessary. Try to choose a pacifier that closely resembles the nipple and breast.

If thumb or finger-sucking becomes a habit with your child try to break it as soon as possible. If it continues beyond the time when permanent teeth begin to erupt, the child may develop crooked teeth and a malformed palate (roof of the mouth). Teeth may come in misaligned and this may cause speech defects, as well, the relationship between the upper and lower jaws may be affected.

A pacifier is the better option, but be aware that In some cases pacifier use can cause abnormal development of the jaws and teeth, if it is improperly sized and shaped, also depending on the strength of your childs sucking action along with the length of time the pacifier spends within the mouth.