Denise, I see 2 and 3 year olds in my practice who are having speech
problems because it is hard to talk around a plug!  I've observed that
there seems to be a natural time to wean (the parents) from the pacifer.
Around 5-7 months the baby doesn't seem to seek it out as much.  I caution
parents against always popping it in, especially when baby doesn't need it.
   I've also seen some nasty skin infections on the face because of the big
plastic part that rests against a baby's face while sucking.  Pacifiers
have there place, like everything, but need to be used judiciously, not as
a "plug" to shut the baby up for any and all reasons.  Sincerely, Pat