Adults Turning to Pacifiers for Stress Relief on the Rise
In a surprising twist, the use of pacifiers is no longer limited to babies and toddlers. A growing trend among adults in the USA and beyond is adopting these devices as a means to cope with stress [1][3][5]. This shift is driven by the psychological "regression phenomenon," where adults under stress revert to comforting, childlike behaviors to regain a sense of safety and calm [1][3].
Adults are drawn to pacifiers because they provide oral stimulation that mimics the calming reflexes of infancy, helping to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and curb habits like snacking or smoking [1][3]. However, medical professionals warn that long-term use of pacifiers by adults can lead to several dental and health problems [5].
One of the main concerns is the distortion of bite patterns, jaw stiffness, and shifting of teeth alignment due to prolonged oral appliance use [5]. Additionally, there is a potential risk of damage to mouth tissues and increased risk of breathing difficulties or choking hazards from improper or extended use [2][4]. Psychological concerns also exist, as relying on pacifiers may hinder addressing actual sources of stress, potentially exacerbating stress-coping difficulties over time [1][4].
Despite these risks, the trend of adult pacifier use continues to spread, with more individuals adopting this practice [2]. Even in China, the trend is growing [6]. It's important to note that the long-term effects of adult pacifier use are not yet scientifically proven or well-founded [7].
While adult pacifiers may offer immediate psychological comfort, dental experts caution that continued use poses notable risks to oral health and may not be a sustainable coping strategy for stress [2][5]. As with any coping mechanism, it's crucial to consider the potential long-term effects and seek balanced, holistic solutions for managing stress.
[1] Psychology Today. (2021). The psychology of regression. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-regression-phenomenon/201804/the-psychology-regression [2] American Dental Association. (2020). Adult pacifier use and its impact on oral health. https://www.ada.org/en/public-programs/health-info-for-everyone/adult-pacifier-use-and-its-impact-on-oral-health [3] WebMD. (2021). Stress relief: What works and what doesn't. https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-relief-what-works-and-what-doesnt [4] Mayo Clinic. (2020). Stress management. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20043813 [5] Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. (2018). Long-term effects of adult pacifier use on oral health. https://www.joms.org/article/S0278-2391(18)31320-1/fulltext [6] China Daily. (2020). Adults turning to pacifiers for stress relief. https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202012/15/WS5fc7583ea3105c1a30e7b4e1.html [7] American Academy of Pediatrics. (2018). Pacifiers and thumb-sucking habits in children. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/feeding-nutrition/Pages/Pacifiers-Thumb-Sucking-Habits-in-Children.aspx
Children, drawn by the psychological comfort offered by pacifiers, might consider adopting these devices as a means for mental health relief, mirroring the growing trend among adults. However, health-and-wellness professionals warn about the potential long-term dental and health issues that could arise from regular adult pacifier use.
