Is thumb sucking or using a pacifier detrimental to my childs dental development?
Sucking is a natural reflex and infants as well as young children may use thumbs, fingers, pacifiers or other objects on which to suck. It seems to make them feel secure and happy or provide a sense of security at difficult periods. Since sucking is relaxing, it may also induce sleep. Thumb or pacifier sucking that persists beyond the eruption of the permanent teeth can cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth and tooth alignment. How intensely a child sucks will determine whether or not dental problems may result. Children who rest their thumbs passively in their mouths are less likely to have difficulty than those who vigorously suck their thumbs. Usually, children stop sucking their thumbs or on pacifiers between the ages of two and four. Parents should encourage their older children to stop the sucking habit by the time their permanent front teeth are ready to erupt. Peer pressure causes many school-aged children to stop.
