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Finger Sucking and Pacifier Use in Children
Finger sucking and pacifier use are very common habits in infancy and early childhood. These behaviors give children a sense of security and help them calm down and fall asleep.
However, these long-term habits can have negative effects on oral and dental development.
What are the Effects on Tooth Development?
Finger sucking and pacifier use, especially when continued after the age of 2-4, can affect the alignment of the baby teeth, the jaw structure and the position of future permanent teeth. These habits, which constantly create pressure in the mouth, can cause the upper front teeth to be pushed forward and create a gap between the lower teeth. This is called “open bite” and may lead to the need for orthodontic intervention at a later age.
When to Stop Finger Sucking and Pacifier Use?
Experts generally recommend reducing these habits after the age of 2 and stopping them completely by the age of 3. This is because if the habit is stopped before this age, there is a high probability that the structural changes that may occur in the teeth will correct themselves. However, if the habit continues longer, jaw development can be permanently affected.
Duties of Families
Getting children to break these habits is a process that requires patience and understanding. Positive reinforcement and distraction methods may be more effective than pressure. In addition, if pacifiers are preferred, it is recommended to choose orthodontic pacifiers and to use them only at bedtime. Since finger sucking behavior is more difficult to control, it may be helpful to seek support from a pediatric dentist or child development specialist.
