Finger and Thumb Habits
Prolonged finger or thumb habits can lead to a number of side effects, including:
- Upper teeth protruding and lower teeth tipping back
- Open bite (no overlap between the upper and lower teeth)
- Speech difficulties
- Improper function (back teeth working harder than they should)
- Distortion of the alveolus (the bone that supports the teeth)
- Narrowing of the upper jaw
- Crossbite of the back teeth
- A functional shift of the lower jaw that can lead to uneven jaw growth
Thumb or finger sucking can be a tough habit to break. Home remedies often do the trick, but sometimes kids need a little extra help.
If your child is over age 5 and still has a thumb or finger habit, come see us. A habit appliance may be just what they need.
Tongue Thrusting
A tongue-thrusting habit can lead to dental and skeletal problems too:
- Flaring of the upper and lower teeth
- Spacing between teeth
- Open bite
- Improper function (back teeth working harder than they should)
- Speech difficulties
Habit Appliances
Habit appliances are custom-made and can be fixed (glued in) or removable.
The appliance sits behind the front teeth and gives your child a gentle, physical reminder to keep their thumb or finger out and their tongue back.
For finger and thumb suckers, it reduces the suction sensation, which takes away the comforting feedback and helps the habit fade.
Getting Used to the Habit Appliance
Wearing a habit appliance isn't painful. Your child may feel some soreness around the top back teeth for a few hours after it's placed, and they might have a little trouble falling asleep for a day or two since they can't self-soothe with their habit.
A little TLC and reassurance usually helps your child adjust pretty quickly.
Have your child steer clear of hard, sticky, and chewy foods while the appliance is in place.
