Thumb sucking allows babies a way to self-soothe and often makes for a happy baby. It may also be considered cute, but being informed about the long term effects on the child's teeth is important as well.
Background
Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for babies, but prolonged thumb sucking may cause problems. The American Dental Association suggests parents stop the habit by the age of four, feeling that no harm is done on developing baby teeth.
Dental Arch
According to the University of Iowa, thumb sucking that continues after the age of two can create changes to the child's dental arch, pushing the top teeth forward and narrowing the upper arch.
Open Bite
An open bite is created when the front teeth are pushed outward. Teeth on top no longer touch the bottom teeth even when the mouth is closed. This is often caused by thumb sucking.
Crooked Teeth
Misaligned teeth and protruding front teeth are a frequent result of thumb sucking, often resulting in poor self image when the child is older. Crooked teeth are also more difficult to keep clean, often resulting in tooth decay.
Speech Problems
The changes in the jaw and teeth made by thumb sucking can create speech problems such as tongue thrust, a lisp or general articulation problems.
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