We have all heard about how if a child uses a pacifier or sucks their thumb for too long it can have irrevocable effects on their dental structure. Many parents fear that their children are sucking their thumb for too long and that the damage could be severe. And many parents fear they do not know how best to stop this habit. When it comes to these habits the important facts that need to be known are when it is ok for children to suck their thumbs and use pacifiers, what are the best methods to break this habits with children, and what are the actual effects of this habit.
The most important thing to understand about thumbsucking and pacifiers is the timing for when this is healthy and when it becomes a problem. The American Dental Association has determined that these practices are best stopped around the age of four. And that the habit is natural and nothing to be concerned about before then. Even though babies begin developing front teeth at six months, thumbsucking and pacifier use are not going to have lasting effects until the four-year mark. Studies also show that the majority of children naturally stop using pacifiers and sucking their thumb regularly around the age of four.
However, in cases where a child continues to suck their thumb past kindergarten, it may be necessary to work with your child to stop this habit and prevent palate damage. In many cases, an easy solution is to apply a bandage to their finger that will discourage your child from sucking on their thumbs. Because thumbsucking is often used as a coping method for children (similar to the adult habit of biting nails), it is important to use positive reinforcement. Being overly critical of this habit can actually cause your child to rely on this habit even more.
Contrary to the myth, the effects of thumbsucking are not irreversible through treatment. However, the effects of this habit especially if continued past age five can be quite serious. Changes to the palette can cause overbite and effect the permanent bite of your child (the bite your child takes when they have all of their permanent teeth). The best solution for this problem is to consult your children’s dentist to get an official opinion. In most cases, all damage can be solved by orthodontic intervention later in life.
At All Star Dental, we are privileged to serve families and children as their first dentists. We specialize in children’s dentistry to make sure you and your child are comfortable in our office. If you are worried about thumbsucking or pacifier habits we can provide a professional opinion and help with teaching your children about breaking this habit and fixing any damage that has been done. To schedule an appointment or with any questions, you can call any of our locations or contact us on our website.
