Thumb sucking is a common habit among children that is considered to be a normal part of their development. It is a natural reflex for infants, as it provides a sense of comfort and security. However, prolonged thumb sucking can have detrimental effects on the teeth and mouth, which can lead to orthodontic problems. We’ll take a look at the effects of thumb sucking on the teeth and mouth, including its impact on orthodontic treatment, and the development of the teeth and jaws. We’ll also look at ways to stop thumb sucking and whether orthodontic treatment can correct the effects of long-term thumb sucking.
Does Thumb Sucking Damage Teeth?
Thumb sucking can cause damage to the teeth, especially when the habit is prolonged. The pressure from sucking can cause the teeth to become misaligned or move out of position. This can result in an overbite or an underbite, which can cause difficulty in chewing, speaking, and even breathing. Additionally, thumb sucking can lead to open bites, which occur when the front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. This can also lead to speech problems, difficulty biting into food, and an increased risk of tooth decay.
Thumb sucking can cause anterior open bites, which occur when the upper and lower front teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed. The study found that the incidence of anterior open bites was higher among children who sucked their thumbs for more than three years compared to those who did not have the habit. The researchers concluded that thumb sucking can have a significant impact on the development of the teeth and mouth.
Prolonged thumb sucking can lead to the development of a deep bite, which occurs when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth. The study also found that thumb sucking can lead to a decrease in the vertical dimension of the jaws, which can affect the overall facial appearance of the individual. These findings suggest that thumb sucking can have long-term effects on the teeth and mouth, which can affect the individual’s quality of life.
How Does Thumb Sucking Affect Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment involves the use of braces, aligners, or other devices to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. However, thumb sucking can interfere with orthodontic treatment, making it difficult to achieve the desired results. The pressure from thumb sucking can cause the teeth to move out of position, which can undo the progress made by the orthodontic treatment. Additionally, thumb sucking can cause damage to the orthodontic appliances, which can increase the duration and cost of the treatment.
According to a study by Ghafari et al. (2015), thumb sucking can have a significant impact on the success of orthodontic treatment. The study found that children who continued to suck their thumbs during orthodontic treatment had a higher rate of relapse, which is the tendency of the teeth to move back to their original position after the treatment is completed. The researchers concluded that thumb sucking should be stopped before orthodontic treatment is initiated to ensure the best possible results.
How Does Thumb Sucking Impact the Development of the Teeth and Jaws?
Thumb sucking can have a significant impact on the development of the teeth and jaws, especially when it is prolonged. The pressure from thumb sucking can affect the growth and development of the jaws, which can lead to malocclusions (bite alignment issues) or misaligned teeth. Additionally, thumb sucking can affect the position of the tongue, which can lead to speech problems and difficulty in swallowing.
A study by Krishnamurthy et al. (2019) found that prolonged thumb sucking can lead to the development of a narrow palate, which occurs when the roof of the mouth is too narrow. This can cause a variety of problems, including difficulty breathing, snoring, and even sleep apnea. The study also found that thumb sucking can lead to a decrease in the vertical dimension of the jaws, which can affect the overall facial appearance of the individual. These findings suggest that thumb sucking can have long-term effects on the development of the teeth and jaws, which can affect the individual’s overall health and well-being.
How to Stop Thumb Sucking?
Stopping thumb sucking can be a challenging task, especially for children who have been doing it for a long time. However, there are several strategies that parents and caregivers can use to help their children stop the habit. One effective strategy is to offer positive reinforcement, such as praise and rewards, for not sucking their thumbs. This can help to motivate children to stop the habit and make them feel proud of their progress.
Another strategy is to provide distractions, such as toys or games, to keep children’s hands busy and reduce the temptation to suck their thumbs. Parents can also try to identify and address the underlying causes of the habit, such as anxiety or boredom, and provide alternative coping strategies. In some cases, professional help, such as counseling or therapy, may be needed to address the underlying issues and help the child stop the habit.
Can Orthodontic Treatment Correct the Effects of Long-Term Thumb Sucking?
Orthodontic treatment can correct many of the effects of long-term thumb sucking, especially when it is initiated early. The use of braces, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances can help to realign the teeth and jaws and correct malocclusions. However, the success of orthodontic treatment depends on several factors, such as the severity of the malocclusion and the duration and intensity of the thumb sucking habit.
There are also devices that can be installed on the upper palate that have small spikes so that thumb sucking is uncomfortable.
According to a study by Kharbanda et al. (2015), orthodontic treatment can be successful in correcting the effects of thumb sucking, especially when it is initiated before the age of seven. The study found that children who received early orthodontic treatment had better outcomes compared to those who received treatment later in life. The researchers concluded that early intervention is crucial for the successful correction of the effects of thumb sucking.
Final thoughts
Thumb sucking teeth can have significant problems later in life. The alignment ofteeth after sucking thumb can mean a negative impact on development of the teeth from sucking thumb and jaws over the years. Sucking thumb teeth is essential to address this habit early on to prevent teeth after thumb sucking long-term damage.
Orthodontic treatment can help correct the effects of long-term thumb sucking and improve dental health and aesthetics. If your child is struggling with thumb sucking teeth, it is crucial to seek professional advice from a trusted orthodontist. To learn more about teeth from sucking thumb and possible dental treatments, please visit www.ivanovortho.com or call (786) 563-4979 to schedule a consultation today.