Pacifier-study

The pacifier study

Four pacifier shapes in a scientific comparison

In a new study by the University of Minho, Portugal, scientists investigated the effects of different teat shapes on the development of the teeth, jaw and palate.

In comparison: the original NUK shape and three teats with a different design.

In this computer simulation from the pacifier study, the child's sucking movements can be closely observed: the tongue presses the pacifier against the palate. The less stress this causes (shown here in red), the better.

The Results

Our study proves:
The original NUK shape for healthy teeth and jaw palate.

Our advantages

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In the computer simulation of the child's palate, it is easy to see how much pressure different pacifier shapes exert.

The study proves:

NUK pacifiers exert a lower maximum pressure and less force on the palate than all the other pacifiers in the comparison. In addition, the pressure is more evenly distributed.

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In the study, it was possible to measure how much the pacifier shapes misalign the teeth

The study proves:

With NUK pacifiers, the misalignment of all incisors and molars is lower than with all the other pacifiers in the comparison.

The conclusion of the study

NUK pacifiers have the lowest risk of teeth realignment and the lowest risk of deforming the palate.

What experts say about it

The results of the current study are an essential argument supporting pacifiers. (Because)... it is scientifically proven that a pacifier ̶ at least if it is the right pacifier ̶ ... has no negative influence.

Dr Christof Metzler

Paediatrician

It is to be welcomed that the current study looked for the optimal pacifier shape, because a pacifier can be helpful and gives relief.

Ingrid Lohmann

Midwife and Breastfeeding Counsellor

I think it is very good that, thanks to this study, we have a model for simulating the effect of different teat shapes [on the surrounding structures].

Dr Matthias Kiefl

Orthodontist