There are a number of risks associated with pacifier use, including the risk that your baby might become dependent on it. It is recommended that you start to wean your child off their pacifier by age three or earlier, so they don’t become too dependent. Prolonged pacifier use can also increase the risk of middle ear infections and dental problems as your child gets older. If you are breastfeeding, you might want to wait to use a pacifier until your baby is three to four weeks old and you’ve settled into a nursing routine, as a dummy may disrupt breastfeeding and make it more difficult.