Does Thumb Sucking Cause Dental Problems?

A baby sucking his thumb is possibly the cutest thing ever. Unfortunately, there is evidence that this seemingly harmless habit can cause problems for your little’s one’s mouth and teeth.

Thumb sucking that extends beyond babyhood can cause an “open bite,” which occurs when the roof of your child’s mouth (called a ‘palate’) becomes arched. It can also cause the front teeth to protrude outwards, resulting in speech, and bite problems. This will increase your child’s need for costly orthodontic treatment and may cause a speech impediment.

Luckily, there are some ways you can encourage your child to give up this adorable, but damaging habit:

• Use positive reinforcement and refrain from negative reinforcement. This means praising your child when he’s not sucking his thumb and ignoring the behavior when he is.
• Utilize a sticker chart or some other reward system for hours or days without thumb sucking.
• Many children resort to sucking their thumb out of stress or boredom. Try to alleviate any stress your child may be experiencing or, if you believe they’re just bored, engage them in playing a game, doing a puzzle, playing with play-doh or any other activity that requires their hands.
• Put a band aid or a sock on your child’s hand during nighttime hours to discourage overnight thumb sucking.

If your child’s behavior persists, please bring it up at their next cleaning or exam and we’ll be able to offer further advice. To make an appointment, please contact Great Outdoors Pediatric Dentistry, located in Dover, New Hampshire.