Can pacifiers damage a baby's gums?

No. A pacifier is what it's named after "pacifier" and is much like suckeling their mother. The only time a pacifier can be harmful to a child is when they get their first teeth. Sucking on a pacifier can push the front teeth out forward in some cases. As long as it is clean and not dipped in anything a pacifier will do no harm whatsoever. All three of my children used one, the oldest until he was 4, they all have perfectly straight teeth and perfect diction. I used it only in the crib/bed or in the car at nap time after they were 6 months old.