Children develop all kinds of habits as they grow. Thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, nail biting, and other repetitive behaviors can feel harmless at first. In many cases, they are normal parts of early childhood. However, some habits can affect the way your child’s teeth and jaws develop if they continue for too long.
The good news is that you can help your child move away from these habits without turning the process into a daily struggle.
Pay attention to when your child relies on the habit. Does thumb sucking happen when they feel tired, nervous, bored, or while watching television? Identifying the trigger can help you find another way to provide comfort.
Try these simple strategies:
Positive reinforcement can make the process feel like teamwork instead of punishment.
Thumb and finger sucking can place pressure on developing teeth. Prolonged pacifier or finger-sucking habits may also affect the way the upper and lower teeth come together. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends guidance to help children stop nonnutritive sucking habits by around age 3, while recognizing that each child develops differently.
If your child continues a habit past the preschool years, a dental evaluation can help determine whether it is affecting their developing bite.
You don’t have to tackle everything at once. Focus on one habit, recognize your child’s progress, and keep encouragement consistent.
If you’re concerned about a habit or notice changes in your child’s bite, scheduling a dental visit can help you understand what’s happening and what steps may be appropriate for your child.
Contact Dr. Naomi La at 617-453-8397 to schedule an appointment at Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry in Southborough, MA 01772.
