Thumb-sucking is a common habit among infants and young children typically between 2 to 4 years old.
Babies have a natural tendency to do it before they even experience breastfeeding.
It’s also often not limited to thumbs but toys, blankets, clothes and, of course, pacifiers.
In these cases, it’s called non-nutritive sucking where they child continues to look for things to put into their mouths even when not feeding.
Scientists say that the action provides comfort and a sense of security. As a way of self-soothing.
But what many parents may not realise is that thumb-sucking can have long-lasting effects on oral health and development.
This is especially true when they fail to outgrow the habit after their reach the age of 4 years old.
While it may seem harmless, prolonged thumb-sucking can lead to a variety of dental and orthodontic problems that persist over time.
Here are some negative side-effects that prolonged thumb-sucking can have on a child.
Negative Effects of Prolonged Thumb-sucking
Teeth Alignment
One of the primary concerns associated with thumb-sucking is the impact it can have on the alignment of the teeth.
Prolonged and vigourous thumb-sucking can exert pressure on the developing teeth, causing them to shift out of their natural position.
This can result in a misaligned bite, commonly known as malocclusion.
Malocclusion can lead to difficulties in biting, chewing, and speaking properly, and it may require orthodontic treatment such as braces to correct.
Mouth Shape
Another danger of thumb-sucking is the effect it can have on the roof of the mouth and the shape of the dental arches.
The constant pressure and suction can cause the roof of the mouth to become abnormally narrow, leading to a high palate.
This can create a crowded environment for the emerging permanent teeth, increasing the likelihood of dental crowding and the need for orthodontic intervention in the future.
Facial Structure
Thumb-sucking can also affect the development of the muscles in the face and mouth.
The repetitive motion of sucking on the thumb can cause certain muscles to become overdeveloped while others remain underdeveloped.
This muscular imbalance can lead to problems with speech, swallowing, and even facial aesthetics.
The result is usually a longer, narrower and flatted face shape.
Social Issues
In addition to dental and orthodontic issues, thumb-sucking can also have social and emotional implications.
As children grow older, persistent thumb-sucking can make them the target of teasing or bullying by their peers. Especially once they’re old enough for schooling.
It may also interfere with the development of self-soothing techniques and independent coping skills.
Breaking the habit can be challenging, and some children may require additional support and guidance from parents or professionals to overcome it.
In which case you should already be trying to help your child kick the habit at least one year before they enter the school system. If they’re still thumb-sucking.
How to Stop Thumb-sucking
To help children break the thumb-sucking habit, it’s essential for parents to provide a supportive and understanding environment.
Instead of punishing or scolding the child, parents should focus on positive reinforcement and gentle reminders.
Encouraging alternative activities such as offering a comfort toy or engaging in other soothing activities can help redirect the child’s attention away from thumb-sucking.
Some healthy self-soothing habits that you can help your child foster is playing, such as with dolls and toys, writing in a journal, reading a storybook, painting a picture, watching educational programs, or playing sports.
It helps if they can interact with other people such as a parent, friend or older sibling.
For older children who are struggling to break the habit, use a thumb guard or bitter-tasting nail polish. These can be used to discourage thumb-sucking.
In severe cases where the habit persists despite efforts to intervene, a dentist or orthodontist may recommend a dental appliance. These can be a crib or palatal bar, to prevent the child from sucking their thumb.
If all else fails, then the next step is simply to take them to a child psychiatrist.
This is so that you can get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
This is, of course, the nuclear option and should only be employed if you have the means to do so.
Say ‘No’ to Thumb-sucking
Thumb-sucking may appear harmless at first.
But its effects can persist over time and have a significant impact on a child’s oral health and development.
Parents should be aware of the potential dangers associated with prolonged thumb-sucking.
And they must take proactive steps to help their children break the habit.
Early intervention and guidance from dental and orthodontic professionals is important.
Not only to prevent future complications but also ensure a healthy smile for years to come.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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