From what age is sucking a concern for the teeth?

That differs from child to child. In the first years sucking is usually harmless. If it continues intensively beyond about four years, discuss it with your dentist.

Do the teeth recover by themselves when my child stops?

In children, mild changes can partly correct themselves if sucking stops in time. Whether this applies to your child can be judged by the dentist.

Do braces or appliances help against thumb sucking?

In certain cases the dentist or orthodontist may suggest appliances. This is always done after discussion and usually only when other approaches have not helped.

Is an orthodontic pacifier better?

A pacifier with an adapted shape may be comfortable, but what matters most is how long and how often the child sucks. Choose a pacifier suitable for your child's age.

Pacifier and Thumb Sucking: Effects on Teeth, How to Stop

Pacifier and Thumb Sucking: Effects on Teeth and How to Stop

Sucking gives babies and toddlers comfort and calm. A pacifier or thumb is therefore often a trusted companion. As long as it is limited to the first years, parents usually do not need to worry. If it carries on longer, it can affect the teeth.

Why do children suck a pacifier or thumb?

Sucking is a natural reflex and a way to feel safe, for example when tired, bored or tense. Many children lose the habit on their own between the ages of two and four. Some hold on longer, especially around bedtime.

What are the effects of prolonged sucking on the teeth?

With long, intensive sucking, pressure on the teeth and jaw can influence growth and position. It depends on how often, how long and how forcefully the child sucks. A temporary habit in the first years often has no lasting effects, and any changes can partly correct themselves if the sucking stops in time.

The upper front teeth may tilt forward
An open bite can develop, where the upper and lower front teeth do not touch
The palate may become narrower, which affects how the jaws fit together
It can influence the way of swallowing and the pronunciation of some sounds
An unsuitable or damaged pacifier can cause other problems when used

Pacifier or thumb: which is better?

A pacifier is easier to take away than a thumb: you can put it somewhere or give it away, while a thumb is always available. A thumb also often exerts more force and may therefore have more influence. A pacifier should fit well, be clean and be replaced regularly. Never dip it in sugar or honey, as that increases the chance of cavities.

How can you help your child stop?

01
Limit the moments Phase out
Agree that the pacifier is only used in bed or at sleep time, and slowly phase that out.
02
Reward positively Reward
A sticker chart or small reward for every sucking-free day motivates more than punishment or reproach.
03
Find another source of comfort Comfort
A cuddly toy, a song or a cuddle can take over the role of the pacifier.
04
Pick a calm moment Timing
Do not start during big changes such as a house move, a new sibling or the start of school.

Practical tip: give children a role of their own, for example by taking the pacifier away together to the pacifier fairy or swapping it for a small gift. A positive goodbye often works better than a sudden ban.

Be patient: relapses are normal. Stay friendly and consistent, and do not compare your child with others.

When is it wise to visit the dentist?

Talk to your dentist if your child still sucks regularly after the age of three to four, if you notice that the front teeth stick out or do not meet, or if stopping is not working. The dentist can assess the situation, think along about an approach and refer if needed. It also makes sense to talk if you are concerned about speech or swallowing.

Frequently Asked Questions

IMPORTANT NOTE

This content is for informational purposes only; it does not substitute personal medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Your personalized treatment plan will be determined after a clinical examination by Mondzorg HS dentists.