Dental Problems That Are a Result of Thumb Sucking

Has your pediatric dentist in Fort Collins, CO told you that your child’s thumb-sucking could result in dental problems? If so, you are probably concerned and want to learn more. About 60-80 percent of children suck their thumbs during infancy. However, thumb sucking should significantly decrease after six months of age. But some kids don’t stop and that’s when it can turn into a dental problem.

Dental Problems That Are a Result of Thumb Sucking

Here are just some of the dental problems that are a result of thumb-sucking. This information will help you understand why it’s so important that you do all you can to break your child’s thumb-sucking habit.

• Misaligned Teeth

Thumb sucking can cause the improper alignment of your child’s teeth. This is the most serious problem caused by thumb sucking because it results in the incorrect positioning of your child’s teeth when their jaws are closed.

• Open Bite

Thumb sucking can also lead to your child developing an open bite. This is when the top and bottom front teeth have grown outward, causing the teeth not to touch, even when your child’s mouth is closed.

• Overbite

An overbite happens when your child’s upper front teeth have grown outward. This is when the top of your child’s teeth covers their bottom teeth when their mouth is closed. An overbite can affect the shape of your child’s face and sometimes even their smile. Additionally, an overbite can sometimes be so severe that it will take extensive orthodontic treatments to fix it.

• Speech Impediments

Thumb sucking can undermine the proper development of your child’s palate, jaw, and teeth. And sometimes, even with the proper dental care, your child’s speech might not fully correct those impediments. This is because the thumb sucking will have changed the shape of your child’s teeth in relation to their tongue. This could leave your child with lifelong communication problems.

Your Dentist Can Help Stop Your Child’s Thumb Sucking

Your dentist will be able to help you with your child’s thumb-sucking issues. They will diagnose any existing problems during a pediatric dental exam in Fort Collins, CO, and give you the needed course of action to correct the problem. Your dentist might begin by placing a palatal crib appliance in your child’s mouth. This will usually stop thumb-sucking immediately. But if it doesn’t, your dentist will advise you as to your next course of action.

Do You Need a Pediatric Dentist in Fort Collins, CO?

If you are looking for a pediatric dentist in Fort Collins, CO, please Contact Big Grins today. We have been practicing since 1998 and have an excellent team with a lot of patience. Additionally, we know exactly how to help children feel comfortable and at ease during what they see as a fearful experience.