Does your child suck their thumb? Are you concerned that they are doing it longer than you would expect? Let’s talk about why they might have sucking habits lasting longer than anticipated.
Is Thumb-Sucking Ever Normal?
Yes, it is normal for a baby to put things into their mouth to learn and explore. However, after 12 months, this should start decreasing. If sucking habits persist past 15 months, there may be an underlying issue. If sucking/mouthing habits are still present at 3 years of age, it is important to look for an underlying cause.
Tongue Position
The tongue should rest lightly suctioned to the roof of the mouth. If the tongue is not resting in this spot, the body can start trying to fill that void with other things such as thumb, fingers, blankets, etc.
Airway and Breathing
Sucking brings the tongue down and forward and moves the lower jaw forward, which in turn opens the airway. When a tongue rests low in the mouth, it sits further back into the airway, so by sucking, the airway is opened, and in return, the body can get more oxygen.
Feel Good Response
Often sucking habits start and continue because it feels good. The pressure on the roof of the mouth, where the tongue is supposed to be resting, stimulates endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, which help you feel happier and calmer. This is also why sucking the thumb can be a soothing response.
What Are the Effects of Thumb-Sucking?
Unfortunately, many negative side effects can stem from prolonged sucking habits. The pressure from the thumb/fingers alters facial growth and development. When the tongue is resting low, it is not resting on the palate and helping to keep the palate widened. This can result in a narrow or vaulted palate as well as an overjet and underbite. When the anatomy changes, oral function and breathing habits can worsen. A narrow palate means a narrow airway. A narrow palate and airway can increase the risk of sleep-disordered breathing and mouth breathing.
Break Thumb-Sucking Habits With Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center
If your child has a prolonged sucking habit, it is important to find an airway-centered team to support you and your child. If there are concerns about sleep-disordered breathing, or a narrowed palate there will likely be other professionals who will also need to be seen in addition to a myofunctional therapist. If you have concerns please reach out to us for a myofunctional evaluation.
info@enrichmenttherapies.com
740 Community Drive, Unit A
North Liberty, IA 52317
319-626-2553
infodm@enrichmenttherapies.com
5530 West Pkwy, Suite 300
Johnston, IA 50131
515-419-4270
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