How Does Thumb Sucking Affect a Child's Teeth Growth?

A child sucking their thumb is really a normal part of infant-hood. Toddlers may even begin sucking on their thumb inside the womb, and it's healthy for them to continue doing so until they're around 6 months of age. After this particular age, the impulse to carry on is gone, but the problem is that many babies still suck their thumbs well after this time and it might prevent their teeth from developing in a healthy manner.

Issues with Thumb Sucking

Thumb sucking may become a habit if it is not controlled. This is because some kids have a tendency to continue to suck to soothe uncomfortable emotions like boredom and dread. This may lead to dental issues like poorly arranged teeth or malocclusion.

When the habit ceases to continue, the teeth can normally correct themselves, but if the habit continues for too long it could require additional help from an pediatric orthodontist. Further, your child may develop difficulties with pronouncing the sounds of “T” and “D,” or may well develop a lisp because of continued sucking.

What You Can Do with Regards to Thumb Sucking in Older Children

There are numerous methods that you, as the father or mother, can utilize to help stop this problem-causing practice. Three things that are quite helpful in stopping the habit tend to be:

- Distraction

- Sympathy

- Working with doctors and dentists

These three ideas might help your kids stop sucking while causing them to be feel accomplished concurrently.

Distraction and the Common Thumb Sucker

Distraction simply means distracting your son or daughter when they are engaging in this particular activity. Make your youngster use each of their hands or make sure they talk to you whenever you notice the thumb gravitating towards the mouth. Things such as playing with toys or perhaps having a conversation may help in this way.

Relating to Your Older Thumb Sucker

Relating to your child is a superb method to help them. If you battled with thumb sucking growing up, share this with your child. Otherwise, you can use an example of an additional habit you struggle with or have struggled with in the past. Simply by showing them that you have had a habit you had to quit in the past, it is possible to help normalize the situation for your child.

Talking to a Doctor or Dentist About Your Thumb-Sucking Older Youngster

Using the services of doctors as well as pediatric dentists to tell your child that she or he needs to stop the habit can be very encouraging. The advice of a person outside the family can often have more weight than a parent or guardian, particularly when the advice is to stop a gratifying activity, much like thumb sucking. Authority figures are very versed in the best way to help your kid and the way to help them grow up healthy.
Have Knowledge of Thumb Sucking Behaviors

Being there emotionally for your kid is vital during their infant-hood and child years. You should make sure that you are mindful of this common problem-causing behavior as it may lead to further health issues if it proceeds very long. Monitor your kid's behavior and keep a short log when events that trigger thumb sucking behaviors to be better prepared to help your kid. Be positive in helping your youngster to avoid thumb sucking and enjoy the results of an attractive, healthy smile.