Does thumb sucking hurt teeth?
Thumb sucking is normal in infants and young children and should cause no permanent problems if not continued past the age of 5. Likewise, it is harmless for infants to use pacifiers. Children who suck their thumbs past the age of 5 may need a referral to a pediatric dentist to determine if problems are developing. Are there eating habits that are bad for a child’s teeth? Sweets like candy or cookies can lead to tooth decay. Starchy foods, such as crackers, and sticky foods, such as raisins, tend to stay on the teeth long. These foods also are more likely to lead to tooth decay. Sugar from fruits and fruit juices left on the teeth for long periods of time is also not healthy for teeth. Starches and fruits, however, are a necessary part of any child’s diet. To avoid tooth decay, give children these foods only at mealtime (before the teeth have been brushed), not at bedtime. For healthy teeth, offer children a well-balanced diet with a variety of foods. When should children be seen by a
