Patient's question:
A ten-month-old baby keeps biting their lower lip. What should I do? Some people suggest using a pacifier to help correct it, but is there a scientific basis for this? Or what else can I do?Doctor's answer:
Babies bite their lips because the gums are itchy, so they unconsciously bite their lips. If parents do not correct this habit in time, it may interfere with the development of the baby's milk teeth and the growth of the oral and maxillofacial area. If a child bites their lips again, there is generally no need to consciously stop them. You can give them plenty of food or use toys to distract them, helping them shift their attention. If the parent notices that the child is biting their lips accompanied by negative emotions, they should pay attention to their emotions and address their specific feelings, such as sadness or nervousness. Parents should provide timely comfort to make the child feel safe.