CAN PACIFIER USE AND THUMB SUCKING AFFECT TEETH?

The sucking reflex is a natural behavior that babies are born with. Sucking a pacifier or thumb can help children calm down and feel secure, especially during the first years of life. Therefore, these habits are generally not a cause for concern during early childhood.

WHEN DO TEETH START TO BE AFFECTED?

The effect of pacifier use or thumb sucking on the teeth depends not only on the habit itself, but also on how long it continues, how frequently it occurs during the day, and the intensity of sucking.

If the habit continues for a long period:

• Gaps may develop between the front teeth.
• The upper front teeth may move forward.
• Narrowing of the upper jaw and changes in the bite of the back teeth may occur.
• The position of the tongue and the production of certain speech sounds may be affected.

The likelihood of dental changes may increase if a child sucks a pacifier or thumb for most of the day or throughout the night.

PACIFIER OR THUMB?

Both habits can affect the development of the teeth and jaws when they continue for a long time. However, pacifier use can generally be limited more easily by parents and completely discontinued when the time is right. Since the thumb is always available to the child, stopping thumb sucking may require a little more patience.

WHEN SHOULD THE HABIT BE STOPPED?

The goal should be to stop pacifier use and thumb sucking around the age of 3. When the habit is discontinued at an early stage, some of the resulting dental changes may correct themselves naturally as the child grows.

However, if the habit continues or changes in the bite are noticed, an evaluation by a pediatric dentist (pedodontist) is important.

HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD?

Scolding, embarrassing, or punishing a child during the process of stopping the habit usually does not solve the problem. On the contrary, it may increase the child's anxiety.

Instead:

• Start by reducing pacifier use during the day and limiting it to bedtime.
• Observe when thumb sucking tends to increase.
• Praise your child when they do not suck their thumb or use the pacifier.
• Choose a stopping date together.
• Avoid methods such as dipping the pacifier in bitter substances or cutting it in a way that could cause injury.

Every child progresses at a different pace. The goal is not to create a miracle overnight, but to reduce the habit calmly and consistently.

A NOTE FROM THE PEDODONTIST

Pacifier use or thumb sucking can be a natural part of your child's development. What matters is monitoring how long the habit continues and supporting your child in stopping at the appropriate time.

If your child is over 3 years old and the habit continues, or if you notice changes in their bite, you may consult a pediatric dentist.