How Can Thumb Sucking And Tongue Thrusting Affect Oral Health
Thumb or finger-sucking is a completely normal habit in young children. Babies and toddlers often do it as a way to soothe themselves. However, if the habit remains even after the first 3 years, it can impact their dental and jaw development.
During thumb sucking, the pressure from the thumb or fingers can push your child’s teeth and jawbone out of shape. As a result, there are higher risks of issues like crossbite, overbite, crooked teeth, and misalignment.
Another habit that children develop at an early age is tongue thrusting. Infants have to thrust their tongues forward to swallow food safely. In most cases, the habit disappears as children grow, but may persist in some. It can also increase the chances of certain orthodontic issues, which is why it should be addressed early on.
Habit Appliance for Thumb Sucking
To break the habit of thumb-sucking in children, we provide specialized habit appliance therapy at our Katy, TX, dental office. This oral appliance is fitted onto your child’s upper molars and has semi-circular metal wires that include a palatal crib.
When your child tries to suck their thumb or finger, the palatal crib acts as a barrier, preventing contact between their thumb and the roof of the mouth. As a result, your child will not be able to suck properly, which helps break the habit. Consistent use of the appliance can help address this habit permanently.
For More Information
Habit Appliance for Tongue Thrusting
Many infants outgrow the habit of tongue thrusting by the age of six. However, if the habit still persists, it can put excessive pressure on your child’s front teeth, affecting their bite and alignment.
Fortunately, our Katy pediatric dentist can help break this habit with the use of a tongue-thrusting appliance. It is similar to a palatal crib used for thumb-sucking. However, the difference is that it is designed to prevent your child’s tongue from thrusting forward, breaking the habit with continuous use.
Children Love Us. Parents Trust Us!
What Our Patients Are Saying
We’ve had a great experience here.
They are very easy to schedule with, and reschedule when necessary. They are courteous and kind and the facility is always clean. They take great care of my son’s dental needs.
Jill Guerrero
We’ve had a great experience here.
Loved this dentistry at the old location and definitely fell more in love with it this time around! There’s a really nice new play area that my daughter loved before her appointment.... Read More
Angelica Gilliatt
We’ve had a great experience here.
I can't thank Dr. Kim and the entire staff enough for the incredible care they provide. Taking my children to this pediatric dentist has been a precious experience, especially after having... Read More
Suyeon Chung
We’ve had a great experience here.
I would like to extended my thanks to the Flourish team for taking such great care of my son . If you are looking for the best, you've found them at this establishment. A special thanks to Megan!