$Unique_ID{BRK02114}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Thumbsucking and Teeth Problems}
$Subject{sucks thumb disfigured teeth suck finger sucking pacifier dentition
overbite thumbsucking}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Thumbsucking and Teeth Problems


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QUESTION:  I have a grandson, aged 2 years old, that still sucks his thumb.
My daughter in law seems unconcerned though I have repeatedly told her that
the child runs the risk of permanently disfigured teeth.  Perhaps a word from
you in your column would help, if you could oblige me.

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ANSWER:  Happy to try to put things straight, though my information may not
agree with yours.  About one-third of all children aged 2 1/2 and younger suck
one finger or another, and another one-third perform the same actions on a
pacifier.  Thus it would seem a bit early to try and stop a 2 year old of this
habit.  Not only that, but most methods to convince a youngster of this age to
stop are doomed to failure.  But what of the risks to his dentition, you might
ask?  Not too much to fear, according to the experts.  There is little in the
literature to suggest any negative effects from this common activity of
infancy.  That applies not only to the teeth but also to the emotional and
psychological aspects which are often are a part of a parents (and
grandparent's) anxiety.  If there is a local effect on the alignment of the
teeth (an overbite), it resolves itself when the habit is discontinued.
Usually it is only the first teeth that are so affected, leaving the permanent
teeth in perfect order.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.