Is your child prone to thumb-sucking in McKinney? Are you worried they will continue practicing this bad habit even once they enter school? While it is normal for babies and even young toddlers to adopt this comfort mechanism, the longer it continues, the greater your child’s risk for serious tooth and bite problems. Here are three potential issues that can develop if this non-nutritive habit persists.
Problems Caused by Continual Thumb-Sucking
What can start as an innocent and harmless way to self-soothe can progress to a harmful habit that negatively affects your child’s oral health and development. Many parents do not see the detriment thumb-sucking can cause. However, once a pediatric dentist discovers a problem with your little one’s bite or the way they talk, it becomes very clear just how damaging this non-nutritive habit can be.
Here are just three potential problems that can develop if you allow your child to continue sucking their thumb:
- Bite misalignment (i.e., crossbite)
- Speech impediment
- Overbite
Ways to Curb This Non-Nutritive Habit
Before you begin to panic and immediately force your child to give up their thumb-sucking habit, it’s important that you take appropriate steps to minimize the chances of a complete meltdown. Fortunately, if you’re looking for a professional in your area and searching “pediatric dentist near me,” you’ll be pleased to learn that Dr. Justin and Dr. Sage are both fathers and board-certified pediatric dentists who can help.
When visiting with them for a scheduled appointment, they can provide helpful tips designed to curb this bad habit while giving your child the confidence needed to no longer turn to this practice for comfort. Some of these tips include:
- Reward your child with a healthy snack when you see they do not suck their thumb for a specific timeframe.
- Offer an alternative comfort item (i.e., teddy bear, blanket).
- Identify stressors that might cause your child to start sucking their thumb and work to eliminate them.
- Avoid negative tones and shaming when your child slips up. Instead, remain positive and encouraging.
- Offer praise when they forgo sucking their thumb.
- Use band-aids or socks to cover their finger to help them avoid this practice.
It may take time for your child to finally give up their thumb-sucking habit, but if you remain diligent, consistent, and encouraging, you can help your little one mature and embrace a healthier smile.
About the Authors
Dr. Justin Chan has been a practicing pediatric dentist since 2012. Earning his dental degree at New York University College of Dentistry, he remains passionate about caring for and helping children of all ages grow and develop smiles that will last a lifetime. Patients who visit Sprout Dentistry for Kids will not only meet Dr. Justin but also Dr. Sage Yoo, a fellow pediatric dentist at the practice. After studying electrical engineering at Purdue University, Dr. Sage went on to earn his doctorate and complete his residency in pediatric dentistry at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. Both he and Dr. Justin offer a variety of comprehensive services to care for the dental needs of all patients who come through their doors. To learn more about our services, visit our website or call (469) 301-3212.