Sir, natural rubber latex contains proteins which, after repeated contact, can lead to sensitisation or clinical allergy type 1. Studies in Denmark have shown a clear relation between the use of natural rubber latex and the prevalence of natural rubber latex allergy. After implementation of national guidelines to reduce exposure to natural rubber latex, the prevalence of sensitisation and allergy decreased substantially.1
We have noticed that lately, natural rubber latex pacifiers are becoming popular. The parents who buy these pacifiers do so because they consider them environmentally friendly and free of chemicals such as PVC and phthalates. However, it can be assumed that frequent sucking on a pacifier of natural rubber latex will increase the prevalence of natural rubber latex sensitisation and allergy.
In addition, these natural rubber latex pacifiers more often have a conventional form, unlike the so-called orthodontic pacifiers designed with a flattened nipple to simulate mothers' nipple anatomy. Conventionally designed pacifiers appear to be associated with an increased prevalence of malocclusion in primary dentition compared to the orthodontic type of pacifier.2
We believe that general dental practitioners and paediatric dentists should discuss these potential risks with parents of babies.
References
Blaabjerg M S B, Andersen K E, Bindslev-Jensen C, Mortz C G. Decrease in the rate of sensitization and clinical allergy to natural rubber latex. Contact Dermatitis 2015; 73: 21-28.
Caruso S, Alessandro Nota A, Darvizeh A, Severino M, Roberto Gatto R, Tecco S. Poor oral habits and malocclusions after usage of orthodontic pacifiers: an observational study on 3-5 years old children. BMC Pediatr 2019; doi: 10.1186/s12887-019-1668-3.
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Gambon, D., Brand, H. Latex pacifiers. Br Dent J 233, 169 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-022-4566-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-022-4566-2