How Thumb-Sucking Can Cause Crooked Teeth

Although a common habit, a child should be weaned off thumb-sucking between the age of 5 to 6 years old. Thumb-sucking as the permanent teeth develop can lead to jaw and teeth issues which may require orthodontics.

Key takeaways:

• Thumb-sucking when the permanent teeth come through can lead to crowded, crooked or protruding teeth.
• An open bite can result from thumb-sucking, where there is a space between the upper and lower teeth when the jaw is at rest.
• A child may require orthodontic treatment once they stop thumb-sucking to address teeth alignment issues.

“While thumb-sucking is normal and shouldn’t necessarily be discouraged, it can be a problem if your child doesn’t stop on their own past the age of five or six.”

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https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/your-childs-thumb-sucking-may-be-causing-crooked-teeth/