The use of pacifiers among adults as a way to reduce anxiety has recently become a popular trend on social media and is now gaining traction in Dubai as well.
This phenomenon, which initially became common in China and South Korea, quickly spread worldwide through platforms like TikTok. Some users in Dubai say that using a pacifier gives them a sense of calm and helps them focus.
One of these individuals, who was recently diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), said:
“The pacifier helps me concentrate, but I keep this hidden from others.”
However, mental health experts warn about the hidden aspects of this behavior. According to psychiatrists, returning to pacifier use in adulthood can be a sign of psychological regression to early developmental stages and may be seen in people with severe anxiety, trauma, or emotional regulation disorders. They emphasize that persistence and dependence on this behavior may indicate an urgent need for therapeutic intervention.
On the other hand, dentists have also warned about the negative effects of this habit. According to a specialist in Dubai, continuous use of a pacifier in adults can lead to tooth displacement, enamel wear, gum inflammation, and even speech disorders. He added: “This behavior may cause problems such as lisps or abnormal swallowing.”
Doctors recommend that individuals who experience severe anxiety without a pacifier or hide this habit seek a mental health specialist to explore the psychological roots of the behavior. Additionally, if changes occur in tooth structure or speech, dental intervention is essential.
Experts stress that quitting this habit in adulthood can prevent irreversible damage. Unlike children, adult teeth do not correct themselves spontaneously, and in many cases, specialized treatments such as orthodontics or speech therapy are required.
