A common habit soothing to babies and toddlers, thumbsucking can occur following pacifier use or emerge on its own. Children typically stop sucking their thumbs between the ages of two and four; however, some keep the habit into their elementary school years. Thumbsucking has a detrimental effect on permanent teeth that can call for extensive cosmetic dentistry to correct. Learn why this habit is something dentists always want children to avoid.

Why Is Thumbsucking Harmful?

1. It Creates Bite Problems

Routine thumbsucking stresses the teeth, roof of the mouth, and jawbone. Continual pressure results in malocclusions that cause bite issues. It can force the teeth forward, causing an overbite, or make the bottom teeth point inward, resulting in an open bite, which prevents the mouth from closing fully. Often, dentists will recommend orthodontic work, such as braces, to correct these issues.

2. It Can Affect Jawbone Positioning

Children who suck their thumbs past the age of four may develop lisps. Dentists note how this habit can change jaw shape, tongue rest positioning, and tooth alignment to alter speech patterns. It can even modify facial shape.

3. It May Cause Sensitivity in the Roof of the Mouth

Years of thumbsucking can cause sensitivities and changes to the roof of the mouth due to the vacuum-like pressure the act creates. The thumb itself can also cause discomfort—the nails may scrape the tissue there to create infections and scabs.

4. It Spreads Germs

Thumbsucking without thoroughly cleaning the hands first exposes the mouth and the rest of the body to a wide variety of germs. A child who handles a family pet or crawls along the floor before sucking their thumb, for example, introduces innumerable contaminants to his or her system.
 

If you’re worried about your child’s thumbsucking and its impact on oral health, consult with the team at King Campbell, DDS, PLLC. Dr. Campbell serves patients throughout the greater Pagosa Springs, CO, area, providing preventive and restorative dentistry services. Call the dentist today at (970) 731-2126 to schedule an appointment for your child or visit the website for more about his offerings.