Problems With Thumb Sucking

Posted on 3/1/2024 by Weo Admin

Baby sucking thumb after parent made appointment at Great Grins for KIDS - Portland in Portland, OR

Babies often seek comfort by sucking on objects such as pacifiers, thumbs, fists, or other objects. In fact, 75% of all babies suck their thumbs in the first year. Babies who suck their thumbs are no big deal- as long as they don't have teeth. However, once they have teeth, if they continue to suck their thumbs or other objects, they may run into problems with their teeth down the road. Here is some additional information on what kinds of problems are caused by thumb sucking.

Dental Issues With Thumb Sucking

Once a child begins to get their permanent teeth, which should be around ages five or six, if they continue to suck their thumbs, there will be consequences. Once your child's permanent teeth come in, sucking on an object like a thumb will cause teeth to grow out of alignment with the rest of their teeth. Sucking a thumb often over time can also lead to jaw misalignment. Your child may need orthodontic care or even surgery to correct their bite issues.

One of the most common problems that occur due to thumb sucking is malocclusion or bite issues. Your child may have an overbite, an underbite, or a crossbite. Crossbites occur often in children who suck their thumbs.

What Should I Do if My Child Sucks Their Thumb?

If you are worried about your child's thumb sucking, there are things you can do. Try positive motivation for your child, such as a reward system for not sucking their thumbs. You may also want to try natural remedies to prevent thumb sucking, such as thumb covers, organic nail polish, or gentle reminders. You don't want to stress the child because that may make him or her nervous and more prone to sucking their thumbs.

If you need help with your child and their thumb-sucking issues, you should consult with a dentist. The dentist may be able to offer tips to help you and your child keep their mouth as healthy as possible.

My daughter was a little nervous to have her dental work done but everyone in the office was super friendly and very reassuring and that helped her nervousness go away. Thanks for the excellent dental experience. ~ Lilyana G.

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Our Dental Blog | Great Grins Pediatric Dentistry - Portland, OR
Dr. Fariba Mutschler & Dr. Mark Mutschler have created this informative blog to help educate the community. If you like an article or the dental blog in general please use the share it button to post to Facebook, Twitter, or Google+.
Great Grins for KIDS Portland, 13908 SE Stark Street, Ste C, Portland, OR 97233-2161; (971) 470-0054; portlandchildrensdentist.com; 10/3/2024; Tags: pediatric dentist Portland;