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Leeds dentist advises parents on infant thumb sucking

Sucking is a natural instinct that leads some babies to suck their thumbs during the first few months of life, or even before birth. The natural urge to suck usually decreases after six months but many children continue to suck their thumbs as a soothing or comforting habit. This habitual sucking usually fades in most children between the ages of three and six.

Prolonged thumb sucking after this time can cause the child to develop dental problems. The constant presence of the thumb causes the front teeth to move outward and other alignment issues. It can also cause malformation of the upper palate of the mouth. The longer that thumb sucking continues, the greater the dental problems and need for orthodontic correction continues.

It may be necessary to treat children who habitually suck their thumbs before it can cause any dental problems. Many child therapists suggest offering a reward system to help children to stop sucking their thumb. Other methods include using a nasty tasting, harmless liquid to make the thumb unpleasant to suck. If these practical methods do not work it may be necessary to have some behavioural therapy or even use an oral device.

While thumb sucking causes no really serious health concerns, it can greatly affect the development of teeth and even facial structure. Corrective orthodontic treatment could end up costing thousands of pounds and meaning several years of wearing unpleasant and uncomfortable braces. If you child sucks their thumb it may be in their interest to learn how to stop now before the issue begins to affect their future. Leeds dentists are trained to deal with thumb sucking and can offer parents the best advice on how to help children to finally give up this comforting habit.

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