Are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful to my childs teeth?
Thumb sucking and pacifier habits are not harmful if they are discontinued before the permanent teeth erupt. The reason for this is growth. A lot of the damage that occurs will self correct during growth. However, if the habit continues after the eruption of permanent teeth, there may be skeletal discrepancies (open bite, cross bite).
Thumb and pacifier habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but some children repeatedly suck on a finger, pacifier or other object over a long period of time. In these children, the upper front teeth may tip toward the lip or not come in properly. Dr. Hargleroad will closely evaluate your child’s habit and monitor their growth and development.
