Thumb Cribs Cumming
Put a Stop to Thumb Sucking
Many young children find thumb sucking to be comforting. Early in life, this habit is not a problem. However, it can lead to challenges with oral development if it continues for too long. At our orthodontic practice based in Cumming, GA, we understand your concerns and are here to assist your family in overcoming thumb sucking. We may suggest the use of a special oral appliance known as a thumb crib to help your child achieve a healthy and confident smile. What is a thumb crib, and what benefits might it offer? Continue reading below to find out, or contact us directly for more information or to request an appointment.
What Is a Thumb Crib?
A thumb crib, sometimes called a palatal crib, is a custom-made oral appliance that serves as a gentle barrier within your child’s mouth. This device is designed to:
- Prevent the physical act of thumb sucking.
- Reduce the comfort or sensation your child experiences from thumb sucking.
- Allow your child to speak and eat normally without interference.
By removing the sensation associated with thumb sucking, the thumb crib encourages your child to break the habit over time. Typically, we recommend that the thumb crib remain in place for a period ranging from nine to twelve months, depending on your child’s needs and progress. This allows enough time to break the habit of thumb sucking and potentially correct any developmental problems caused by it.
The Process of Getting a Thumb Crib
If your child is older than three and you have concerns about ongoing thumb sucking, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our orthodontic team. Here is what you can expect during the process:
- Initial examination of your child’s teeth and oral structures.
- Painless X-rays or scans, if necessary, to evaluate your child’s oral development.
- A personalized recommendation regarding the use of a thumb crib.
- Custom design and fitting of the appliance to ensure that it is as comfortable and effective as possible.
- Careful placement of the thumb crib during a follow-up visit.
Your child may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days after the thumb crib is placed. Some children feel emotional about losing the ability to self-soothe with thumb sucking. During this adjustment period, your patience and encouragement are important. We advise parents to offer extra affection and support to help their children through this transition. Most children adapt quickly and resume their normal activities within a few days.
Benefits of a Thumb Crib
Using a thumb crib offers significant advantages for your child’s oral and overall health. Benefits include:
- Reduced risk of problems with the growth and alignment of teeth and jaws.
- Prevention of problems such as open bite, gaps, and misalignment.
- Lower risk of issues related to chewing, speech, and sleep apnea.
- Reduction of the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment in the future.
- Encouragement for your child to discover alternative, healthier self-soothing strategies.
At Serenity Orthodontics, we are dedicated to supporting you and your child through every stage of their struggle against thumb sucking. If you have questions about thumb sucking or wish to learn more about thumb cribs, please contact our Cumming team today. We look forward to helping your child build a foundation for lifelong oral health.
