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Thumb Sucking and Oral Health

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  • Thumb Sucking and Oral Health

Sucking on a thumb or finger is a common and completely normal habit amongst babies and young children, developing even before they’re born. While holding the thumb or finger in the mouth doesn’t usually cause damage, prolonged vigorous sucking may cause some dental disturbances.

Long-Term Effects on Oral Health

When a child continues to vigorously suck their thumb or finger, it can have some negative effects on the roof of the mouth, teeth, and jawbone. This is because the pressure of sucking places added stress on those areas. Prolonged thumb sucking may lead to:

  • Overbite, open bite, and other bite issues

  • Change in the shape of the jawbone

  • Sensitivity of the roof of the mouth

Most of these issues resolve themselves or fail to develop if a child loses the thumb sucking habit before the development of their permanent teeth, Those who do not may be at a higher risk for these orthodontic issues.

How Long Is Too Long?

Generally, children drop the habit of sucking their fingers between the ages of 2 and 4. If your child continues to frequently suck their thumb past the age of 4, you should speak with your dentist or their pediatrician. To avoid issues in their oral development, the doctor may want to discuss weening options, they may also recommend letting the behavior continue until your child gives up the habit on their own.

How to Help Your Child Stop Sucking Their Thumb

It is important to note that you have the best chance of success if your child also wants to stop. Here are some tips to help your child to stop sucking their thumb:

  • Ignore it: Sometimes, giving attention—good or bad— to a behavior you want to stop only prolongs it.

  • Pay attention to your child’s triggers: Thumb and finger sucking is often a self-soothing behavior when a child is tired, hungry, acred, etc. Pay attention to what causes your child’s behavior and address it.

  • Use positive reinforcement: Praise your child when you notice that they aren’t sucking their thumb. Try creating a sticker chart to allow them to see their progress in stopping the habit.

  • Gentle reminders: When you notice your little one with their fingers in their mouth, take a moment to stop what you’re doing and calmly tell them to stop. This is especially helpful when your child also wants to stop.

  • Visit your Orthodontist: Sometimes, talking to a professional can help children to better understand the consequences of sucking their fingers. An orthodontic specialist may also suggest different orthodontic devices to help disrupt chronic thumb sucking.

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Delina G.
I was nervous about getting braces as an adult, but my experience with Speaks was excellent. The 2 ½ years went by quickly. Dr. Speaks and the staff were clear about the timeline and what I needed to do to ensure a good outcome. I got my braces off last year, a few days before my 30th birthday, and I’m still very happy with the results!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're delighted to hear that your experience at Speaks Orthodontics was positive and that you’re thrilled with your results. Enjoy your beautiful smile!
Melissa C.
My experience from start to finish with my orthodontic treatment at Speaks Orthodontics has been wonderful. Having to go back into orthodontics in your 30s isn’t ideal, but the team here made it smooth and comfortable. The free consultation was detailed and unhurried. The office is clean and comfortable. Every staff member is kind and helpful. Dr. Speaks’ bedside manner is top-notch, and not only did I get my teeth alignment fixed, he also helped me with evening my gumline out with a laser gingivectomy as part of my treatment. I’d highly recommend them to anyone looking for orthodontic treatment.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Melissa! We're thrilled to hear that your experience with our team and Dr. Speaks exceeded your expectations. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to seeing you again!
LaPhonso S.
Loved my experience with Dr. Speaks and their team. All the the staff were super friendly and made me feel like they actually cared when I would go in. Had braces and got them off sooner than I expected and very happy with my results!! Highly recommend Speaks Orthodontics!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, LaPhonso! We're delighted to hear about your positive experience with our team and your satisfaction with the results. Your recommendation means a lot to us!
shareen M.
They have been so amazing with their follow up to all my questions. So much patience!!
Thank you
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Shareen! We're glad to hear that our team has been helpful and patient in addressing your questions. Your satisfaction is our priority!
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