Thumb sucking is a normal reflex which many babies develop. Although this habit commonly disappears with age, chronic thumb-sucking may also produce long-term consequences on the status of their mouth, particularly on the form and position of the teeth and jaws.
Why Thumb Sucking Habit is Bad?
The habit causes the upper front teeth and the palate around them to be subject to constant pressure. This pressure may cause the incisors to move outwards with time forming an open bite or crossbite and later on in life may require orthodontic care.
Chawla Orthodontics provides a wide range of paediatric care which pays special attention to early diagnosis and treatment. This pediatric dentist Villa Park is committed to helping families with evidence based and non-punitive approaches to reduce the tendency to suck thumb and safeguard the future dental condition.
How Thumb Sucking Affects the Mouth
When a child suckle thumb, the thumb is pressed against the upper front teeth, the tongue and lips are pulled in. These may elongate the upper dental arch, place the lower teeth excessively close and result in a small, high-arched palate. The outcome is an increased threat of crowding, misalignment and even speech impairment.
Prevention and Early Intervention
Preventing dental complications over a long period of time is best achieved through early prevention. Parents could begin by reminding their child not to put his thumb in his mouth in a positive sense, through encouragement and demonstrating good behaviour. In case a child is resistant, a comfort object like a soft blanket may act as a sensory alternative.
What Parents Can Do Today
- Set Clear Boundaries – Consistency is important; there can be a thumb free rule at bed time and quiet time.
- Provide Alternatives – Breath influencing toys or pacifiers can be used over a period of time to minimize the desire to suck fingers.
- Praise Progress – Applaud each minute the child maintains keeping his or her thumb out.
- Use Visual Cues – A picture of a mouth where the thumb is missing can help children at a younger age know what is expected.
Professional Help When to Seek
When a child continues to suck his or her thumb after the age of 4, or you realize that the child has an early development issue in dental characteristics like tilted incisors or a small palate, then visit an orthodontist or a paediatric dentist. The professionals will provide corrective appliances like palatal crib or a habit-break appliance which will discourage thumb sucking but also encourage the normal development of the jaw.
Conclusion
Thumb sucking is a popular childhood habit, and its continuation may result in serious issues with teeth. With correct guidance through an orthodontic team your child trusts or early intervention can ensure that the children grow up healthy with correct teeth and jaw alignment. When parents address thumb sucking habit as early as possible and work with their children in Villa Park, they save their kids smiles throughout for life.