The decision whether or not to use a pacifier (AKA paci, soothie, binky, chupi, chupon) is a very controversial topic. Ultimately, the decision is up to you. As a parent, it’s important to make an informed decision by understanding the risks and benefits associated with pacifier use as well as important safety tips.
Most babies have a strong sucking reflex. Sucking on hands and digits is an innate behavior seen both in the fetus and neonate. This non-nutritive sucking (NNS) is now considered part of routine developmental care of the preterm infant. Beyond nutrition, sucking has a soothing, calming effect. And for some babies, pacifiers are the key to contentment between feedings. That's why many parents rank pacifiers as must-haves!
Consider the PROS:
Soothes a fussy baby. If you have a fussy/colicky baby, sometimes a paci can be a “godsend” lifesaver!
Offers temporary distraction. A paci may come in handy during and after shots, blood tests or other painful/uncomfortable/stressful procedures.
Helps a baby fall asleep
Eases discomfort during flights. Babies can't intentionally "pop" their ears by swallowing or yawning to relieve ear pain caused by air pressure changes.
Helps to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). NNS at nap time and bedtime may reduce the risk of SIDS.
Consider the CONS:
Might interfere with breast-feeding. Sucking on a breast is different than sucking on a pacifier or bottle, and some babies are sensitive to those differences. This can lead to nipple confusion.
Might become dependent. If your baby uses a pacifier to sleep, you might face frequent middle-of-the-night crying spells when the pacifier falls out of your baby's mouth.
May increase risk of infection. A paci should be cleaned and sterilized on a regular basis because it is placed directly into your baby's mouth. Pacifiers are constantly falling on the floor and getting dirty, which means they are often colonized with bacteria and can cause oral candidiasis.
Might increase the risk of middle ear infections. AKA otitis media. However, rates of middle ear infections are generally lowest from birth to age 6 months—when the risk of SIDS is the highest and your baby might be most interested in a pacifier.
Prolonged use might lead to dental problems. Prolonged use might cause a child's teeth to be misaligned or not come in properly, or can cause dental caries (cavities).
Information retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/pacifiers/art-20048140