Unfortunately, many youngsters can't break the habit by this time and some even continue with it into their teens. According to experts, thumb sucking is a very normal response to anxiety and stress and does not point to insecurity or emotional problems in children. Most children give up thumb sucking by age four, while others continue to suck their thumbs as a means of exerting independence. Aside from some minor problems with thumb and fingernail infections, the major damage from thumb sucking occurs to the teeth and the jaw. When this habit is prolonged, it produces significant problems with chewing, speech and facial appearance. Thumb sucking also creates a lot of negative pressure in the mouth, which has serious effects on the overall development of the face and the narrowing of dental arches. These effects can last long because the cheek muscles become hyperactive due to over action.
BUT there is NO cause for worry if children stop the habit early. Not all thumb sucking causes equal harm. Three factors affect the outcome of damage. These are duration, intensity and frequency of the habit. The higher these three factors are, the higher the damage to the teeth. Unfortunately for children and parents, prolonged thumb or finger sucking easily deforms the bone surrounding the upper and lower front teeth, producing a hole or gap when the teeth are brought together, known as an "open bite". If a child stops thumb-sucking before the loss of its front teeth for the permanent front teeth to appear, most or all harmful effects disappear within six months. However, if the habit persists through the appearance of permanent front teeth, there can be some damage. This can result in chewing difficulties, speech abnormalities and an unattractive smile. Placing gloves on children’s hands before bedtime, painting thumbs and fingers with various foul-tasting or bitter substances, while still wrapping bandages around the offending fingers, can help. |
