Oral Habits
As your child grows and develops good oral health is key.
Pediatric Services
Oral Habits
Harmful Oral Habits in Toddlers and Infants
Children who are young sometimes have oral habits, like sucking on fingers, pacifiers or other objects. This is completely normal and can provide a sense of security. Most children naturally outgrow this habit between two and four years old.
Thumb and pacifier sucking habits that go on for a long period of time can create crowded, crooked teeth or bite problems. If the habit continues while the permanent teeth erupt, we will assist you in helping the child break the habit with behavioral modification techniques. If that proves unsuccessful, we may suggest an orthodontic type appliance to help your child break the habit.
Most children stop these habits on their own, but if you have any questions, feel free to reach out anytime!