How a Palatal Crib Can Immediately Stop Your Child’s Thumb Sucking Habit

Is your child still sucking their thumb? If so, you’ve probably wondered at what age they should stop, right? Did you know that an orthodontist in Wichita, KS, can help you with that? Let’s talk about childhood thumb-sucking for a moment.

At What Age Should a Child Stop Sucking Their Thumb?

Most children will stop sucking their thumbs on their own before they reach five years of age. However, if they don’t stop before they turn five, it’s important to take measures to stop the behavior.

How Thumb Sucking Can Lead to Future Dental Issues

Continued childhood thumb-sucking can lead to major dental issues later on. For example, misaligned teeth, cavities, gum recession, bite problems, and could even lead to speech problems.

Your orthodontist can help stop the thumb-sucking habit with a dental device called a palatal crib.

What Is a Palatal Crib?

A palatal crib in Wichita, KS, is a custom-made semi-circle-shaped oral appliance. It’s made of metal (usually) and placed on the roof of your child’s mouth and cemented to the back of their teeth. It’s not painful or uncomfortable, and it’s well tolerated by most children.

How Does a Palatal Crib Stop Thumb Sucking?

Children suck their thumbs because it gives them a comforting sensation. So, it’s basically their way of self-soothing. A palatal crib is placed in a child’s mouth in a way that keeps the thumb from reaching the roof of the mouth. And that, in turn, prevents the comforting sensation from occurring.

Once the comforting sensation is no longer achievable, it quickly breaks the thumb-sucking habit. However, the palatal crib is usually left in place for about six months or so to ensure the thumb-sucking habit doesn’t continue.

Are You Looking for a Reputable Orthodontist in Wichita, KS?

If your child is still sucking their thumb after the age of five, please Contact Trimmell Anders & White Orthodontics to schedule a consultation. We would be happy to talk with you about how a palatal crib could immediately help stop your child’s thumb-sucking habit.