My child sucks his / her thumb, should I be worried?
Self-soothing by sucking on a thumb is perfectly normal and natural in babies. Many young children continue to suck their thumbs, and whilst you may think it looks cute, did you know that over time it could cause a number of short and long-term problems for your child's health and wellbeing?
Why is thumb sucking bad for my child's teeth?
Thumb sucking should normally have ceased by the time your child reaches five - if not, developing teeth can be pushed out of their correct alignment, causing issues such as:
·Cross bite - shifting of the jaw when your child opens or closes his or her mouth
·Over or underbite - teeth that don't come together in a normal manner, or at all
·Tongue thrust, causing a lisp to develop when speaking
How can I stop my child sucking his / her thumb?
There are a number of simple, practical steps you can take to help your child lose the habit before the development of his / her teeth and oral cavity are adversely affected. These may include:
·A reward chart - a tried and tested a way to subtly change your child's
·Introducing a teddy or soft comforter at night time
·Identifying the underlying causes (anxiety? boredom?) and taking steps to avoid or address these
What treatment options are available for misaligned teeth caused by thumb sucking?
The Team at KIDS will undertake a thorough examination of your child's teeth and jaws in order to create a
We understand that there is more to stopping thumb sucking than just breaking the habit. At KIDS we aim to educate you as to WHY your child is sucking. Our approach includes a thorough assessment of their habit and any underlying issues that may be associated, as well as informing you of the impact it may be having on their growth and development.
Thumb and digit sucking has an enormous impact on children and families. If you are concerned about your child’s sucking habit contact the team at KIDS today!
Our Team
We can help your child GROW A HEALTHY SMILE!
KIDS – Healthy Kids Nurtured by Nature
p:(07) 4942 5111
e: mackay@healthykidsqld.com.au
a: 6 Discovery Lane, Mackay QLD 4740
Monday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Tuesday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Wednesday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Thursday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Friday 9:00am to 3:00pm
Saturday – CLOSED
Sunday – CLOSED
Lip and Tongue Tie Forms:
- Child New Patient Form
- Expectations Lip and Tongue Tie
- Stretching Video
- Health Professional Comms Form