Is my child’s finger or thumb habit really a problem?

Finger or thumb sucking can be a way for children to find comfort; however, in many cases it can also affect a child’s teeth, jaw, and speech. Three of the most common affects of finger or thumb sucking are: An overbite: a protrusion of the upper front teeth. An openbite: the front teeth do not come together (accommodating the thumb or finger). Posterior crossbite: the upper teeth move inside the lower teeth. In these cases, orthodontics (braces) may be necessary to resume health and normal function. These cases can become more complex for a child who’s finger or thumb sucking habit is affecting his/her permanent Read More →