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  1895 Mowry Ave, Suite 103
Fremont, CA 94538
Tel: 510-790-7900
   
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Family Dentist in Fremont Union City Hayward

Thumb, Finger and Pacifier Habits

     
  Q: Why do children suck on fingers, pacifiers or other objects?
 
 
A: This type of sucking is completely normal for babies and young children. It provides security. For young babies, it's a way to make contact with and learn about the world. In fact, babies begin to suck on their fingers or thumbs even before they are born.
 
     


 

 
  Q: Are these habits bad for the teeth and jaws?  



A: Most children stop sucking on thumbs, pacifiers or other objects on their own between two and four years of age. No harm is done to their teeth or jaws. However, some children repeatedly suck on a finger, pacifier or other object over long periods of time. In these children, the upper front teeth may tip toward the lip or not come in properly, and may require Orthodontic treatment to correct in later years.

 


 

 


 

 


Q: When should I worry about a sucking habit?

 
 
A: Dr. Vaishali will carefully watch the way your child's teeth come in and jaws develop, keeping the sucking habit in mind at all times. For most children there is no reason to worry about a sucking habit until the permanent front teeth are ready to come in.
 


 

 


 

 


Q: What can I do to stop my child's habit?

 



A: Most children stop sucking habits on their own, but some children need the help of their parents and their dentist. When your child is old enough to understand the possible results of a sucking habit, your dentist can encourage your child to stop, as well as talk about what happens to the teeth if your child doesn't stop. This advice, coupled with support from parents, helps most children quit. If this approach doesn't work, Dr. Vaishali may recommend a mouth appliance that blocks sucking habits.
 
     
     
 

Q: Are pacifiers a safer habit for the teeth than thumbs or fingers?

 



A: Thumb, finger and pacifier sucking all affect the teeth essentially the same way. However, a pacifier habit is often easier to break.

If you have any questions call Precious Dental Care at 510-790-7900.

 
     
Fremont Dentist Dr. Vaishali provides quality Family and Kids Dentistry in Fremont neighbourhood serving Union City, Newark, Hayward, Milpitas and other bay area cities. We are accessible by Fremont Bart at 1895 Mowry Ave near Washington hospital in Fremont.
 
Dr Vaishali Family and Pediatric Dentist in Fremont Ca, Newark, union city & Hayward