Children have natural rooting and sucking tendencies to help them feed. As a result, they may begin sucking their thumb as early as their time in the womb. The pediatric dentists at Kid Smiles in High Point, Winston-Salem, and Asheboro, NC, see many little ones with the habit. They know continuing it too long into childhood can cause issues with the teeth. Learn more below about why it is harmful and when most kids stop doing it. 

A Pediatric Dentist’s Guide to Thumb Sucking 

Negative Effects 

Excessive thumb sucking causes incoming teeth to erupt improperly. As a result, front teeth may not fully break out of the gums. If the teeth do appear entirely, they often position themselves more forward than usual. This condition leads to oral health issues, as well as the need to re-align the teeth or jaw through braces and dental appliances. 

The habit can also trigger an open bite. This condition causes tooth fractures, difficulty eating, and problems with speaking correctly. Some kids will even develop temporomandibular joint dysfunction, leading to symptoms like chronic pain and headaches. 

Helpful Solutions 

Most kids stop sucking their thumb between two to four years old. If they are a toddler or preschooler, pediatric dentists usually have no reason to intervene. However, if your child is over the age of four, it’s time to try a few strategies.

Help your child quit by praising them when they don’t engage in thumb sucking. If you think the habit is a result of anxiety, work to fix the underlying reason for their stress or discomfort. Some kids suck their thumbs out of boredom. Find them a new activity using their hands, such as drawing or painting.

If you are still having difficulty, visit your practitioner for a dental exam. Some children benefit from having the dentist explain how thumb sucking affects their oral hygiene. Others may need a specialized dental appliance to stop their obsession. The doctor’s approach will depend on your son or daughter’s age, the suspected reason for their routine, and your parental preferences. 

Every child is unique. By partnering with a compassionate dental provider focused on personalized attention, your child will achieve better oral health. To make an appointment with a caring and skilled general and pediatric dentist open to all insurances, call Kid Smiles in High Point at (336) 885-5437, Winston Salem at (336) 788-5588, or Asheboro at (336) 626-7555. Learn about their treatments and team by visiting their website.