Do You Have A Thumbsucking Toddler?

Open BiteThis message from the Pediatric Dental Center is about children and thumb-sucking. It is well-established that thumb-sucking can cause future dental problems.

One of these issues is a type of malocclusion called an open bite.

What is an open bite?

An open bite occurs when the front teeth in the lower and upper jaw have been moved forward; often to the extent that they do not meet when the mouth is closed.

In most cases, an open bite is linked to thumb sucking, but pacifiers and tongue thrusting can also move teeth out of alignment.

What is tongue thrusting?

Tongue thrusting refers to an atypical swallowing practice. The tongue is pushed forward during swallowing. Normally, the tongue is on the roof of the mouth and the teeth closed completely when swallowing.

What can cause tongue thrusting?

A tongue thrusting habit can arise due to factors other than thumb sucking, though this is a common cause. Allergies, large tonsils, tongue size, jaw angle, muscular problems, frequent sore throats, and anything that makes swallowing difficult can result in tongue thrusting habits.

At Pediatric Dental Center, we diagnose bite issues in young Burlington dental patients such as underbites, overbites, crossbites and open bites.

If dental treatment is started early in a child’s life, many bite issues and their associated problems can be avoided. At the Pediatric Dental Center we specialize in pediatric dentistry, with an emphasis on preventative care. We have offices in Burlington, Cold Spring and Crestview Hills KY. Call for an appointment today!

Contact Pediatric Dental Center:

859-534-5640

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

5495 N Bend Rd Ste 102
Burlington, Kentucky
41005

 

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