Getting off a breast shield

Ive been ebf my baby shes 6.5 weeks old. I had flat inverted nipples so ive been using a breast shield my lactation consultant gave me in hospital. I want to stop using it because i heard my nipples need to get babys saliva in order for her to get the right nutrients and id also like her to be able to breastfeed without it. How can i get baby to latch without it? I tried and we both ended up getting frustrated and i just put back on the nipple shield and fed her. Are my nipples too small for her to latch on to? I do have small nipples.