According to the American Dental Association (ADA), thumb sucking doesn’t cause permanent teeth or jaw problems when it’s stopped before age four. Though anywhere from 85 to 99% of children are done sucking their thumb before this time, continuing the habit past this point can lead to oral health problems. Keep reading to learn about a few potential complications of prolonged thumb sucking and tips on guiding your child toward healthier oral habits.
Why Your Child Sucks Their Thumb
So, why do children suck on their thumbs in the first place? Putting thanks in their mouths is their way of learning, exploring, and understanding how the world works. Additionally, for some children, thumb sucking is a source of comfort, much like a favorite stuffed animal or blanket.
Though children tend to outgrow this behavior without any intervention, that isn’t always the case. Some kids may increase the amount of thumb sucking they do or return to it when they’re feeling anxious or stressed.
6 Potential Dangers of Thumb Sucking
Though no condition is caused exclusively by thumb sucking and it is safe for younger children, it can lead to oral health complications if continued past a certain age. Be sure to monitor this habit so your child doesn’t develop problems like:
- Malocclusion (misaligned bite), which may cause trouble or discomfort when chewing
- A high, narrow-shaped palate due to strain on the bones of the roof of the mouth
- Bite problems, such as overbite or overjet
- Crowded or crooked pearly whites
- Receded lower jaw
- Speech problems
6 Ways to Encourage Your Child to Stop Sucking Their Thumb
It’s important to reinforce healthy behaviors rather than punishing bad ones when waning your child off of thumb sucking. Some ways to do this include:
- Use a replacement – This can be a stuffed animal, blanket, or favorite toy.
- Deter them – If thumb sucking has become a habit and they don’t even notice that they’re doing it, try bringing it to their attention to deter them.
- Discourage behavior – This can be done by putting a bandage on their thumb.
- Track their progress – Give them a reward for good behavior.
- Explain the negative effects – If your child is old enough, explain how thumb sucking can harm their oral health.
- Avoid stressful situations – You should also try teaching them ways to reduce or manage discomfort other than sucking their thumb.
About the Practice
At Huntington Orthodontics, Dr. Justyna Balicka gives patients the care they need to keep their smiles looking lovely. They treat those of all ages living in the Huntington area with exceptional care, including services to help your little one get over their habit of thumb sucking. Do you want to learn more about Huntington Orthodontics or to make an appointment with Dr. Balicka? If so, call their office at (631) 759-8834 or visit their website.