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Thumb-sucking and Pacifier Use

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Young children often suck on pacifiers or their thumbs to soothe themselves. However, pacifier use and thumb-sucking can cause problems with the growth and development of the mouth, including the alignment of teeth. Thumb-sucking can be a difficult habit to break. Here are some tips:
- Provide alternative comfort to your child if he or she is thumb-sucking for comfort.
- Praise your child for not thumb-sucking.
- Involve older children in developing a plan to stop.
- Ask Dr. Alina Bergan to explain how thumb-sucking affects teeth at your child's next visit.


After permanent teeth come in, sucking may cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth and alignment of the teeth. It can also cause changes in the roof of the mouth.

Unfortunately pacifiers can affect your child’s teeth the same ways as sucking fingers and thumbs. Pacifier use is often an easier habit to break.

Please, note that determining factor for possible future dental issues is the intensity of the sucking. Children that rest their thumbs passively in their mouth are less likely to develop problems with their baby (primary) teeth. If you have any questions about your child’s dental health don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Alina Bergan at your next visit to our Cedarhurst office.

To make an appointment please call us at 800-223-0801 or go online and book at appointment on our website: http://www.alinabergandds.com/appointments/