Let's take a look at some of the effects of thumb sucking on a child's teeth.
1. Malocclusion
There are two different ways for children to suck their thumbs. Some children who suck their thumb only support their thumb in their mouth and do not actively suck. You can also know more about how to stop thumb sucking through various online sources.
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However, most children who suck their thumbs do so with a lot of energy and exercise. In this way, they are most susceptible to problems with their teeth and oral cavity, such as malocclusion.
A malocclusion leads to misaligned teeth, which the constant pressure of regular and vigorous thumb sucking may cause.
2. Problems with biting, chewing, and talking
Thumb sucking doesn't just affect the child's appearance through dental problems.
Since thumb sucking also affects the development of the teeth, jaw, and roof of the mouth, your child may also have problems with the physical aspects of mouth use. This includes eating and chewing and talking.
Children with improper malocclusion due to thumb sucking can also have difficulty speaking because their tongue tends to move forward through misaligned teeth.
In some cases, improper disability and lack of language control cause whispers or other language problems.
3. Exposure to bacteria and microbes
Young children usually play with their toys and touch almost anything they like. Another consequence of prolonged thumb sucking is that these children directly transmit the germs or bacteria they get by touching objects in their mouths.
Children who suck their thumbs are often at higher risk of infection if they are continuously exposed to germs.