A Dentist Can Stop Your Child’s Thumb (and Pacifier) Sucking Habit Immediately
Thumb-sucking is super common for young kids. However, did you know that it can affect how their teeth grow if it continues for too long? Dentists see this all the time. That’s why many suggest trying something called a palatal crib. These are especially popular among parents trying to stop their child’s thumb-sucking habit (this includes pacifier sucking, too).
Where can you get this awesome oral appliance? From your child’s pediatric dentist in Jacksonville and St. Johns, FL, that’s where.
Let’s take a closer look.
What Is a Palatal Crib?
A palatal crib in Jacksonville and St. Johns, FL, is a tiny dental device that fits snugly on the roof of your child’s mouth. It looks like a small metal fence. Kind of like train tracks. This device is what blocks your child’s thumb from making contact with their palate (breaking the comforting sensation).
These cribs are specially made to fit comfortably and do their job without poking or hurting (which is super important if you want your child to wear it).
How Does a Palatal Crib Work?
Here’s the cool part. The palatal crib in Jacksonville and St. Johns, FL, acts like a guardrail. It keeps the thumb away from the roof of the mouth. That makes thumb-sucking less soothing. Almost immediately, this appliance helps kids give up their thumb-sucking habit. It does this by naturally retraining their mouth muscles.
The Benefits of Using a Palatal Crib
Why bother with a palatal crib anyway? Well, for starters, it can actually prevent future issues like crooked teeth and jaw alignment issues. Kids who use a palatal crib often avoid major bite problems and have better jaw growth, too. Plus, parents find that this oral appliance works much better than sticker charts and rewards alone.
Most kids get used to the crib in just a few days. And, the appliance isn’t usually needed for more than six months.
Contact Us – A Reputable Pediatric Dentist in Jacksonville and St. Johns, FL
Worried about your child’s thumb-sucking? A palatal crib is a safe and simple solution. Contact Cochran, Soares, and Associates Pediatric Dentistry today for expert advice and to help your child break the habit altogether.
