Thumb Sucking Appliances
We offer custom appliances designed to gently discourage thumb sucking, ensuring your child's dental development stays on track.
Thumb/Habit Appliances
Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for children that can often extend beyond infancy. While it can provide comfort, persistent thumb sucking may lead to dental issues such as misaligned teeth and changes in the roof of the mouth. At Wilderness Station Pediatric Dentistry, we can create a custom-fitted appliance tailored to your child’s needs to discourage the habit and help your child achieve a healthy smile.
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When should a thumb sucking appliance be used?
Thumb sucking appliances are generally recommended for children who continue thumb sucking after the age of 4-5. By this age, prolonged thumb sucking can start to affect the proper growth of the mouth and the alignment of the teeth. Our pediatric dentists will evaluate your child’s situation during a consultation to determine if an appliance is necessary and the right time to begin treatment.
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How is a thumb sucking appliance made?
The process begins with a detailed assessment of your child’s oral structure. We then take an impression or a digital scan of your child’s teeth. Our dental lab creates the custom appliance, and the dentist ensures the device fits comfortably in your child’s mouth and does not cause any irritation or discomfort.
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What types of thumb sucking devices are available?
There are two types of thumb sucking appliance options, permanent and removable. Permanent appliances are attached to the teeth for continuous wear, while patients can take removable devices in and out. Each type is designed to be as unobtrusive and comfortable as possible while effectively helping to curb the thumb sucking habit.
