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When a baby or small child likes to suck their thumb, at first, it can seem like a blessing. After all, they don’t need a pacifier, and they may self-soothe quite easily. Unfortunately, thumb sucking can be hard on the teeth and palate, causing problems that can last a lifetime. Here is a little more information about why some children struggle with thumb sucking, how it can impact their teeth, and what you and your dentist can do to remedy the situation. 

Why Children Suck Their Thumbs 

Babies are born with a natural rooting and sucking mechanism, which can prompt some children to suck their thumbs when a bottle or breast isn’t available. By sucking their thumbs, babies and small children may feel more comfortable, which is why many thumb suckers develop a habit that can be hard to break. 

How Thumb Sucking Impacts a Child’s Mouth

Unfortunately, thumb sucking can cause changes to the way the teeth grow in, making them crooked. Prolonged thumb sucking can even change the way the palate forms, creating an open bite that makes it difficult for kids to chew food properly. Thumb sucking can also cause kids to develop a tongue thrusting habit, which can complicate the jaw and palate development issues.

How Parents Can Help Kids Curb the Habit 

dentistAlthough most children develop the self-soothing skills to stop sucking their thumbs by the time they are between two and four years old, kids who continue the habit past that point should be encouraged to stop. In addition to talking with your little ones about how sucking a thumb could hurt their teeth and mouth, parents can also encourage kids to quit by doing things like painting the nail of the preferred thumb with anti-sucking nail polish. This special polish has a bitter taste that discourages thumb sucking and nail biting, while also being safe. Parents should also use positive reinforcement with kids who resist the urge to suck their thumbs. Consider offering simple rewards such as staying up twenty minutes later for avoiding the habit, or going out on a special outing together when the habit is curbed. 

If your child’s teeth have been damaged by thumb sucking, talk with your dentist about correcting the problem. In addition to prescribing orthodontic care, dentists may also suggest a nighttime mouthguard to prevent issues like tongue thrusting.

 

Whether your child currently sucks their thumb and needs dental care or you are wondering what to do about crooked teeth caused by years of the habit, the team at Bethel Family Dentistry in Clermont County, OH, is available to help. With a commitment to patient satisfaction and a focus on comfort, Dr. Michael Minarchek, DDS, can help you enjoy a healthier smile. Like the dentist’s practice on Facebook for news and updates, and call (513) 734-2029 to schedule an appointment.

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