I spent four hours on Thursday with Jerry at his new pre-school, Nadeshiko Kids, which is run out of the home of our former mid-wife. Jerry consistently put toys in his mouth - which resulted in the toys being gently removed and washed. Sachiko recommend that we consider giving Jerry a pacifier so that he can fulfill his need to chew and learn that the toys themselves are not appropriate for chewing on.
We've never pushed a pacifier with Jerry before so coming home from work and seeing him run around with one was quite a shock. It is interesting that he is quickly learning that the pacifier is a substitute for chewing on the toys - it isn't something he needs in general. I do worry whether it will be habit-forming - but since he loves to talk and can't talk well with it in his mouth, I think the chances are low.