Thumb-sucking is a common habit among young children. It can be part of how kids naturally explore and experience the world around them, and it can serve as a powerful soothing mechanism during times of stress or anxiety. However, thumb-sucking is not always a good thing, particularly when it continues beyond a certain age. In this blog post, you will learn how it can affect your child’s oral health and how you can help them to break the habit.
Thumb-Sucking and Your Child’s Oral Health
While thumb-sucking is natural for infants and toddlers, you should understand the potential effects on your child’s oral health if the habit persists. Most children outgrow thumb-sucking on their own by age four or five. However, when children continue to suck their thumbs beyond this time, dental problems can begin to develop.
The pressure from repeated sucking may cause front teeth to move outward or upward, leading to a malocclusion (bad bite). It can also contribute to changes in the roof of the mouth, which sometimes results in speech difficulties or challenges with chewing and swallowing food. These concerns are more likely if the thumb-sucking is frequent and vigorous.
While orthodontic care can help to reverse the issues caused by prolonged thumb-sucking, it is better to prevent them from developing in the first place.
Tips for Stopping Thumb-Sucking
If your child needs extra support in order to break free from sucking their thumb, these tips might help:
- Take time to talk with your child about why stopping the habit is important for their health. Encourage them in a way that is understanding and supportive, rather than critical or punitive.
- Try to identify when your child is most likely to suck their thumb. Is it during stressful moments, when they are tired, or while watching television? Understanding these triggers can help you find alternative ways for your child to cope or self-soothe. For example, you can try keeping their hands busy with toys or activities.
- Offer comfort and reassurance, especially during moments of anxiety or transition.
- Praise your child for progress, no matter how small it seems.
- Talk to your pediatric dentist for guidance. In addition to offering tips and expertise, they might also suggest that your child uses a thumb crib, which is a special oral device that is designed to prevent thumb-sucking.
Thumb-sucking can pose a threat to your child’s oral health! Be proactive about noticing and addressing this issue so their smile can thrive.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Adrienne Archidiacono-Jeanis is a highly skilled pediatric dentist who is proud to serve the Aledo and Fort Worth communities. She has experience in helping parents and children cope with thumb-sucking. If you are concerned about your little one’s oral health, or you have questions about how our team may be able to serve you, contact our practice at 817-406-2025.