How Bad is Thumb-sucking for Teeth?

Thumb sucking is common among infants. It’s a natural reflex that comforts and soothes them.

For babies and children, thumb sucking is acceptable and shouldn’t cause harm. They’re likely to stop the habit around the age of 4 or earlier. But if they continue it at age of 5 onwards, this can already affect the development of their teeth and jaws.

Negative Effects of Long-Term Thumb Sucking

Children who suck their thumbs can have normal teeth development. The habit may only cause problems if it persists past the age of 4. Here are some issues that long-term thumb sucking can cause:

• Open bite issues. The upper and lower front teeth become pushed outward. The teeth don’t come into contact even when the child’s mouth is completely closed.
• Overbite issues. The teeth still become directed outward. However, the upper teeth cover the lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
• The roof of the mouth becomes narrow and sensitive.
• The shape of the jaw changes, affecting the child’s speech and eating abilities
• Speech impediments occur, such as not being able to pronounce sounds correctly.
• The tongue goes out of its normal position.
• They may experience social issues such as getting teased by their peers.

How to Discourage Thumb-sucking

Thumb sucking can be ignored unless it continues until your child’s adult teeth start emerging. Kids often stop the habit on their own once they realize it isn’t acceptable in social settings. However, if you notice that they’re having a hard time letting go of the habit, you may need to start intervening.

Positive reinforcement is crucial to discourage children from thumb sucking. Scolding, scaring, or nagging them may only worsen the issue and cause anxiety. Here are some ways to help your child stop thumb sucking:

• Praising your child when they do not thumb suck.
• Offering rewards for not sucking their thumb.
• Covering their thumb or fingers with a thumb shield or bandage.
• Gently reminding them to stop if they tend to do it absentmindedly.
• Focusing on addressing their thumb-sucking triggers. Looking for alternatives such as using toys they can squeeze on if the habit is caused by stress or anxiety.
• Using dental devices that make thumb sucking more difficult or displeasing.

If your child only sucks their thumb during sleep, it’ll be more difficult to break the habit. Offering a pacifier in place of thumb sucking isn't an ideal solution. The continued use of pacifiers can also trigger dental health risks similar to thumb sucking.

Also, pacifiers tend to fall on the ground and attract germs and viruses. The only advantage of using pacifiers is that it’s easier to break than thumb sucking.

Talk to Your Family Dentist Today

It takes time to stop thumb sucking, so stay patient and supportive of your child. If you’re concerned as your little one still won’t let go of the habit, discuss options with your dentist.

Our dental team can answer questions about your child’s oral health needs. Call us today to schedule a consultation.