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 study proves:
The original NUK shape is best for teeth, jaw and palate.

Least pressure on the palate

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.

Minimal realignment of the teeth

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

The study proves:

 

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

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