Are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful for a childs teeth?
Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Development of the teeth and bones may be affected by persistent sucking habits. Changes that may occur include bite problems, interference of normal tooth position and eruption, and alteration of bone growth. Professional evaluation of a habit by your pediatric dentist is recommended for children beyond 3 years of age. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers when the permanent teeth arrive, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist to aid your child in getting rid of the habit.
(back to top) Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers when the permanent teeth arrive, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist.
Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers when the permanent teeth arrive, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist.
