Thumb-Sucking
Although the sucking reflex is very natural and common in young children, the presence of such a habit in a growing child may influence skeletal and dental development adversely, causing serious orthodontic concerns. Thumb sucking and similar habits may affect as much as 75% of young children, and up to 13% of children over the age of 10.
How Does The Damage Occur?
Typical thumb habits tend to protrude the upper teeth, as well as retrude the lower teeth. The higher the frequency and longer the duration of the habit will cause corresponding increase in severity of the problem.
What Should Be Done?
At an early age, treatment may begin with simple behavior management using encouragement, positive reinforcement, and rewards. if the damaging effects are slight, spontaneous correction may occur when the habit is stopped early enough.
In cases where the harmful habit persists beyond the eruption of the 1st molars (about age 6), a fixed habit breaker/ tongue crib is used. It is important to help the child understand the appliance is intended as a ‘reminding appliance’ and not a punishment. Again, positive reinforcement and rewards can be a powerful incentive to help a child who needs to wear such an appliance.
How Does It Work?
A habit breaker appliance works passively by allowing the lower jaw to continue normal growth without interference of a thumb habit. When inserted early enough, there is a good possibility for auto correction.
How Long Should It Stay In?
In younger children, it should be left in place for at least several months after the habit has stopped, or until an open bite has closed, whichever is longer. In older children, further orthodontic treatment may be necessary, though the appliance still should remain in place for 6-12 months after the habit is gone.
How Is A Habit Breaker Appliance Made?
An impression is taken of the upper teeth and the appliance is fabricated from that.
Seal Out Tooth Decay!
What are sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Sealants are painted on as a liquid and hardened to form a shield over the tooth. The placement is simple and painless.
Why get sealants?
The most important reason for getting sealants is to avoid tooth decay. Fluoride in toothpaste and drinking water protects the smooth surfaces of teeth but back teeth need extra protection. Sealants cover the chewing surfaces of back teeth and keep out germs and food.
Having sealants put on teeth before they decay will also save time and money in the long run by avoiding fillings or crowns used to fix decayed teeth.
What causes tooth decay?
Germs in the mouth use the sugar in food to make acids. Over time, the acids can make a cavity in the tooth. Of course, a healthy tooth is the best tooth. So it is important to prevent decay. That’s why sealants are so important.
Why do back teeth decay so easily?
The chewing surfaces of back teeth are rough and uneven because they have small pits and grooves. Food and germs can get stuck in the pits and grooves and stay there a long time because toothbrush bristles cannot brush them away.
Who should get sealants?
Children should get sealants on their permanent teeth as soon the teeth come in- before decay attacks the teeth. The first permanent molars- called “6 year molars”- come in when a child is between the ages of 5 and 7. The second permanent molars - “12 year molars”- come in when a child is between 11 and 13 years old. Other teeth with pits and grooves also might need to be sealed. Teenagers and young adults who are prone to decay may also need sealants.
Should sealants be put on baby teeth?
This may be a good idea if your child’s baby teeth have deep pits and grooves. Baby teeth save space for permanent teeth. It is important to keep baby teeth healthy so they don’t fall out early.
Does insurance pay for sealants?
Some insurance companies pay for sealants. Check with your insurance company for details. If not, sealants are still quite affordable.
How long do sealants last?
Sealants can last up to 10 years. But they need to be checked at regular dental check-ups to make sure they are not chipped or worn away.
Are sealants new?
No, sealants have been around since the 1960’s. Studies have shown that they are safe and effective. But many people do not know about sealants. About 1/3 of children in the United States have sealants on their teeth.
What age should my child first see the dentist?
Earlier than you probably think. I recommend a child see the dentist at age 1 or when their first tooth appears, whichever comes first. At the child’s first visit, a cleaning is not done, but it affords the opportunity for the child to get acquainted with the dental team and office in a fun, stress-free environment. An oral exam is done to evaluate the teeth and gums. We make recommendations on proper dental care for the child, and discuss proper nutrition for healthy teeth. We will then set the child up for visits every 6 months to monitor the teeth, and when the child is ready, we will do a cleaning for them. This usually occurs around age 3. We will also do a fluoride treatment and x-rays when we feel the child is ready. This will usually occur around age 4. We always go at the child’s pace, and want them to have a great experience every time they visit our dental office!