binkies do not cause dental problems in infants or toddlers so you do not have to worry about this. likewise binkies may reuce the incidence of sids (crib death). i do not think you need to take it away though your son will get used to whatever. some parents prefer to encourage thumb-sucking since the thumb is always "handy" (sorry -- bad pun). bottom line: make a decision and go with it. if you want to terminate the binkie know that there may be a few rough nights but your son will adjust. if you want to continue to support it then just do so knowing that there will be no long-term benefits (if it is stopped by age 5) and that there may also be some benefit.
when should i wean my baby off his binkie?