Know the effects of thumbsucking on the teeth and mouth

1. Know the effects of thumbsucking on the teeth and mouthog Studies prove that toddlers start sucking their thumb as early as the time of their birth or even before that. This comes as their natural reflex and continues when mother nurses her child or feed him with the formula bottle. Research also suggests that this habit make babies feel secure in their surrounding. Therefore, babies are found sucking their thumb even in their sleep. However, this natural urge shouldn’t be left unchecked by parents. Read along to know more about how thumbsucking can affect your child’s dental growth. Does thumbsucking damage the teeth? Generally, a child tends the stop the habit between the age of 2 to 4, as soon as permanent teeth begin to appear. A major effect of the mentioned habit on a child is that he may continue it even after permanent teeth start to appear. It prevents the proper growth of the mouth, alignment of the teeth, and can also bring changes in the roof of the mouth. Nonetheless, the intensity of this habit is a big determiner in whether or not a dental issue will surface. For instance, less damage occurs to kids who rest their thumbs in the mouth than the ones who engage in the activity vigorously. This makes it highly important for parents to keep a check on their kids. Dentists are seen recommending parents to listen for a popping sound when a child takes out his thumb from his mouth. Such a sound is an indicator of an aggressive thumbsucking. FYI

2. Rigorous thumb sucking can have long-lasting effects on children, making it highly important for parents to keep a tab on their kids’ habits. This occurs because it causes repetitive pressure on teeth, jawbone, and the roof of the mouth. The effects are as below – ● Overbite ● Bottom teeth tipping or open bite ● Jaw structure changes that can further affect speech pattern ● Roof sensitivity Breaking the habit Foremost, parents should understand that it is highly natural for a kid to suck his thumb. Therefore, parents should try to avoid making a big deal out of it. While few kids give up this habit early, few take time to unlearn it. The less pressure they feel around them, the quicker they can give-up the habit. But, if your kid persists for a long time consider enforcing the following methods – 1. Professional help from dentists. 2. Praise your child as it will help him to get rid of his habit in a positive light. 3. Analyze your child’s psychology behind this habit, if he is stressing about a particular situation help him to get over the factor first. 4. Parents should encourage their children to use pacifiers. Though these devices have the same impact as of thumbsucking its easier to break this habit as compare to thumbs.