Thumb sucking is an innate habit present in some children. This is generally due to the child’s suckling reflex when born, which helps soothe children. However, this habit can stay throughout childhood and be with the child through their younger years to teenage years and, in some cases, to adulthood.
How does thumb sucking damage your teeth?
By sucking your thumb, you are encouraging:
- Development of the cheek muscles
- Pushing your tongue away from the roof of your mouth
- Protruding of your upper front teeth
All the above can result in a narrow upper arch which limits the amount of space for the teeth and can result in crowding issues. In addition, the upper teeth are also protruded forward, which can result in an inaesthetic appearance.
30-year-old patient
The patient below is a 30-year-old adult who sucked her thumb extensively as a child. As a direct result, you can see the negative effect on how her teeth developed crooked and wonky.
9-year-old patient
The patient below is a 9-year-old child who sucked her thumb extensively. Her teeth are now protruding with a narrow upper arch and an open bite as an unfortunate consequence.
How can braces help?
First and foremost, it is important to try to stop sucking your thumb altogether. Once this has been achieved, orthodontic treatment can correct most problems. This generally involves an expander brace in the upper arch to widen the upper jaw. This can provide more room for the teeth to align. Following this, fixed braces can be used to align the upper and lower teeth and push the upper protruded teeth back.
