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Pediatrics - Thumb Sucking

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  • Introduction
  • Symptoms
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment

Introduction

Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for babies.  They may suck on their thumb, pacifier, or other objects to relax, induce sleep, explore their world, or for security.  Youngsters usually stop thumb sucking between the ages of two and four years old.  Some children may continue to suck their thumbs past this period.
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Symptoms

Thumb sucking can cause dental and skeletal problems if it persists after the permanent front teeth are ready to come in.  Thumb sucking can affect the way the mouth grows.  It can influence jaw formation and alter bite patterns.  Thumb sucking can cause the front teeth to come in crooked.  Prolonged sucking on a pacifier or other objects can cause the same problems.
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Diagnosis

Your dentist can determine if thumb sucking is influencing your child’s jaw, bite, or tooth formation by examining your child’s mouth. 
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Treatment

If your child is old enough to understand, your dentist can talk to your child about the affects of thumb sucking.  Your dentist is happy to encourage your child to stop.  Over-the-counter solutions and mechanical devices can be of help.
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This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.

The iHealthSpot patient education library was written collaboratively by the iHealthSpot editorial team which includes Senior Medical Authors Dr. Mary Car-Blanchard, OTD/OTR/L and Valerie K. Clark, and the following editorial advisors: Steve Meadows, MD, Ernie F. Soto, DDS, Ronald J. Glatzer, MD, Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, Christopher M. Nolte, MD, David Applebaum, MD, Jonathan M. Tarrash, MD, and Paula Soto, RN/BSN. This content complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. The library commenced development on September 1, 2005 with the latest update/addition on February 16, 2022. For information on iHealthSpot’s other services including medical website design, visit www.iHealthSpot.com.

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Testimonials

  • Kimberly C.

    Dr. Chase has mapped my mouth, fixed teeth, and provided caring and superior dental care for me and my family for years using top-of-the-line practices and equipment. She has been there in a pinch for me and really cares. I smile like a queen thanks to her!!

  • Michele G

    I had a great experience at Mid Bay Dental. Better yet, my 5-year-old daughter came home feeling very proud and happy after her dental cleaning. She was terrified of going to the dentist, and their staff made her feel extra special and gave her confidence about brushing and preventive care!

  • Adam F.

    The dentist and staff always take the time to explain everything to me, answer my questions, and give me the best direction for what I am trying to accomplish. The customer service at Mid Bay Dental is far beyond most other businesses.

  • Bobby R.

    Have been going to Mid Bay Dental for over 15 years, and they make us feel like family. Always willing to work with us on scheduling and welcome us on every visit. Highly recommend the staff here if you have any anxiety about dental visits. The office environment and staff make you feel calm, relaxed, and safe.

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At Mid Bay Dental, Dr. Justine Chase and her staff offer patients in Niceville, FL, and Bluewater Bay area comprehensive dental care services including advanced dental procedures, dental wellness, and family and cosmetic dentistry.

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