A hygienic pacifier includes an annular folding structure formed on a substantially spherical shield that joins a nipple to a faceplate and that is movable between a recoiled storage position in which the shield substantially surrounds the nipple and an extended use position in which at least a portion of the nipple projects through the nipple access opening and is exposed for use. The annular folding structure may be used to bias the shield to remain in the extended use position when the shield is placed in the extended use position. Further, in some instances, the annular folding structure may be configured to provide a bias that may be overcome by a moderate impact to the pacifier such as an impact associated with dropping the pacifier.