Thumb-sucking and pacifier use are common in many young infants. Usually, they abandon these habits within the first two years of life, but some continue for longer. That’s why pediatric dentists want parents to know how prolonged thumb-sucking and pacifier use can negatively impact a child’s bite. At Pediatric Dentistry Kahala: Allen K. Hirai, DDS in Honolulu, HI, they’re happy to answer any questions parents have about this topic. Specifically, their dentist wants to share the following key information.

Pediatric Dentist Explains the Effects of Thumb-Sucking & Pacifiers

Misaligned Bite

Letting children continue these habits for the first two years of life is generally safe, so long as you’re making regular trips to your pediatric dental clinic to monitor the development of their bite. In a healthy bite, the top teeth should slightly overlap the bottom teeth. Constant sucking motions can prevent this, especially in the front teeth. The presence of a thumb or pacifier blocks the front teeth from erupting in the correct position.

Improper Tongue Position

Typically, when the tongue is at rest, it stays on the roof of the mouth, in a slightly upward position. Children who suck their thumbs or use pacifiers beyond the appropriate age develop tongues that rest in downward positions. This can affect everything from breathing to speech patterns. If your child has been having trouble stopping these habits, ask your pediatric dentist to see if they notice any irregularities in their tongue position.

What to Do About It

As a parent, there are many steps you can take to discourage your child from sucking their thumb. Praising them for doing a good job of limiting their thumb-sucking or pacifier use, instead of scolding them for their behavior, is one. You should also understand that children often suck their thumbs as a way of dealing with anxiety. By addressing the cause of the anxiety, you’ll help put a stop to this behavior.

You can also limit the potential consequences of these habits by making regular trips to your child’s pediatric dentist. At Pediatric Dentistry Kahala: Allen K. Hirai, DDS, on Oahu, they’ll help you better understand what you can do to promote better dental habits in your child. Contact them online to learn more, or call (808) 737-0076 to schedule an appointment.