Thumb-sucking is a reflex in infants – some are even spotted on ultrasounds with a thumb in their mouth – and is considered a self-soothing act. Unfortunately, thumb-sucking that lasts too long can lead to dental problems, which could result in the need for braces.

Problems Caused By Thumb-Sucking

Sucking on a thumb or fingers can exert unnecessary pressure on the teeth, bone, and soft tissues in the mouth. This creates problems with tooth positioning and jaw growth. Extended thumb-sucking can be the cause of several different oral health issues in children:

• The upper front teeth are pushed out, commonly known as buck teeth
• Front teeth may not erupt completely causing an open bite
• Upper and lower teeth do not come together properly
• The front bottom teeth may tilt in
• The lower jaw may not develop normally, resulting in a weak chin
• The soft tissue in the palate of the mouth may narrow, resulting in a crossbite

When children have been weaned from the bottle or from breastfeeding, this should also be the end of the thumb sucking. The natural instinct to suck typically decreases around six months old. But some children continue to rely on this act of sucking for comfort when they’re tired, scared, sleepy, or bored.

It’s the children who are still sucking their thumbs when their permanent teeth are growing in that are at the greatest risk for developing orthodontic problems.

Breaking the Thumb-Sucking Habit

While your child’s thumb-sucking can be frustrating to you as a parent, remember that this habit has become a comfort and in their mind is doing more good than harm. Be as understanding and supportive as you can as you coax your child to wean off of their thumb-sucking.

If your child is older than age three and still sucks his or her thumb, there are ways to try to discourage the habit. Positive reinforcement is one of the first places to start – instead of criticizing your child for sucking her thumb, praise her when she doesn’t suck her thumb. Create a reward chart and award your child a special sticker for each day she resists the habit.

There is always the option of applying a bitter solution to the thumb to try to discourage the habit. But a dedicated thumb-sucker can often get past this discomfort. Protective gloves can also help dissuade a child from sucking their thumb.

For older children, simply explaining the damage that this habit is causing to their mouth and teeth – along with photo illustrations – may drive the point home and have them stopping all on their own to help prevent the need for traditional braces.

When to Get an Orthodontist’s Help

Thumb-sucking can harm your child’s teeth, jaw growth, and overall oral health. As recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists, every child should see an orthodontist for evaluation by age seven. If you especially have concerns about the repercussions of your child’s thumb-sucking on their oral health, make your appointment at Baum Orthodontics to discuss possible solutions and deterrents.