Thumbsucking is a natural reflex for many infants and toddlers. It can provide comfort, help with self-soothing, and even assist with sleep. However, when thumbsucking continues beyond the early years, it can begin to affect your child’s dental development in ways that may require professional attention.
 

At Pediatric Dental Group, a KIDSHINE Family Practice serving families in Honolulu, Pearl City, Kapolei, Kailua, and Lihue, we want parents to feel informed and confident in supporting their child’s oral health. Here’s what you need to know about how thumbsucking may impact your child’s growing smile.
 

Understanding the Effects of Thumbsucking on Dental Health

While thumbsucking is common in children under age 3 and often harmless in the short term, persistent thumbsucking beyond this age, especially when it is frequent and forceful, can interfere with normal dental and jaw development.
 

Common Issues Associated with Prolonged Thumbsucking:
 

•         Misaligned Teeth (Malocclusion): Thumbsucking can put pressure on the upper front teeth, causing them to push forward or creating an open bite. This can affect both the appearance and function of your child’s teeth.

•         Changes in Jaw Growth: The habit can alter the shape of the roof of the mouth (palate) and impact proper jaw alignment, which may contribute to speech difficulties and biting problems.

•         Delayed Eruption of Permanent Teeth: In some cases, the continued habit can interfere with the natural eruption pattern of permanent teeth, leading to crowding or the need for future orthodontic treatment.

•         Speech Impediments: Ongoing thumbsucking can influence tongue placement and lead to speech issues such as lisps or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.
 

When Should Parents Be Concerned?

If your child is still thumbsucking after age 4, it’s a good time to consult with your pediatric dentist. While every child is different, most dental professionals agree that prolonged thumbsucking should be addressed before permanent teeth begin to come in, usually around age 6.
 

Tips to Help Your Child Stop Thumbsucking

•          Offer Praise and Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate progress rather than punish the behavior.

•          Identify Triggers: Notice when your child tends to suck their thumb (stress, boredom, or fatigue) and help them find alternative coping strategies.

•          Use Gentle Reminders: Sometimes, children don’t realize they’re doing it. A soft reminder or visual cue can be helpful.

•          Visit Our Dentist: We can offer guidance on orthodontic treatment when appropriate.
 

Supporting Healthy Smiles in Our Hawaii Communities

We understand the unique needs of children and families in Honolulu, Pearl City, Kapolei, Kailua, and Lihue. Whether it’s a routine check-up or helping your child break a thumbsucking habit, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.
 

If you have concerns about your child’s thumbsucking habit, contact Pediatric Dental Group, a KIDSHINE Family Practice, to schedule your child’s dental exam at one of our convenient locations in Honolulu, Pearl City, Kapolei, Kailua, or Lihue. We offer comprehensive pediatric dental care, orthodontics, oral surgery, adult dentistry, and hospital dentistry throughout all our KIDSHINE family practices. We ensure that children and adults throughout the islands have access to quality dental care they need for healthy smiles and overall well-being. Please call (808) 245-2131 or (808) 593-8828 to book an appointment today.