Effects on Teeth and How to Stop

Introduction

Most infants suck their thumbs. Many use pacifiers. It’s expected. These habits give comfort, help babies self-soothe, and offer relief during times of stress. For new parents, they can feel like lifesavers.
But the question always arrives: what happens if the habit doesn’t go away? Dentists see the long-term effects. But it’s not always what people think. Not every child who sucks a thumb ends up needing braces. Still, the longer it continues, the more likely it is that changes begin.

Why Babies Suck in the First Place

This isn’t something taught. It’s instinctive. The sucking reflex begins before birth. Some babies are seen on ultrasounds with their thumbs in their mouths. After birth, that habit often carries on. The behavior is called non-nutritive sucking. It doesn’t serve a feeding purpose, but it still plays a role. It helps regulate emotions. Eases tension. Some infants need it more than others. In the first year or two, it isn’t harmful. It often fades on its own. That’s the natural arc.

When It Becomes a Concern

Problems don’t usually appear right away. The body is adaptable early on. But over time, especially past age three, things shift. The jaw is soft. Teeth are still erupting. Bone can be molded. A thumb pushing on the same area, night after night, has an effect. The most common changes include:

• Open bite: The top and bottom front teeth don’t touch, leaving a visible space
• Overjet: The top front teeth begin to push forward
• Crossbite: The upper back teeth may end up inside the lowers
• High palate: The roof of the mouth rises, often narrowing the space

It doesn’t always happen. But if the habit sticks around long enough, the risk grows.

Thumb vs. Pacifier: Is One Worse?

Both can cause problems. But thumbs are harder to take away. A pacifier can be controlled. Restricted. Phased out. But a thumb is always there. Even when a child doesn’t realize they’re doing it. Thumb sucking often lasts longer. The pressure tends to be stronger, especially during sleep. Over time, that difference adds up. Some pacifiers are designed to be gentler. Orthodontic pacifiers aim to reduce the risk. They help but they’re not a fix on their own.

When Should the Habit Stop?

The earlier, the better. Dentists usually recommend ending pacifier use by 18 to 24 months. For thumbs, the goal is to stop by age three. Some give a little longer, up to age four, especially if the habit is fading on its own. Once permanent teeth start erupting around age six, the stakes go up. At that point, lingering habits are more likely to cause long-term changes that need treatment.

Will the Teeth Go Back to Normal?

In many cases, yes. If the habit ends early enough, the mouth can often adjust. The tongue plays a role. So do the lips and cheeks. Together, they help guide teeth back into better alignment. But that’s only true if the sucking stops in time. If the habit goes on too long, some changes won’t correct themselves. That’s when dental braces or expanders may be needed.

Helping a Child Let Go of the Habit

Shaming doesn’t work. Neither does scolding. Most children don’t suck their thumb to be difficult. They do it for comfort. Instead, focus on small changes.

• Praise when the thumb stays out of the mouth
• Offer a substitute like a soft toy or calming routine
• Use visuals like sticker charts or progress calendars
• Talk openly about what’s changing in their teeth

In tough cases, dentists might suggest a habit-breaking appliance. These are small, painless devices placed inside the mouth. They don’t hurt. They just make sucking less satisfying.

Do Orthodontic Pacifiers Prevent Problems?

They can reduce risk. But no pacifier is completely safe if used too long. The orthodontic label means the nipple is shaped to rest more naturally in the mouth. It’s usually flatter and designed to apply less pressure on the palate. Still, if a child uses one for several years or constantly throughout the day, the risk remains. Also, avoid dipping pacifiers in sweet liquids. That can lead to cavities in baby teeth, which are still vulnerable.

What If the Habit Won’t Stop?

For some children, sucking is deeply tied to stress or sleep. In those cases, breaking the habit may take longer. If a child is over age four and still relying on thumb sucking or a pacifier regularly, it’s time to ask for guidance. A pediatric dentist can assess the situation and help form a plan. The earlier the issue is addressed, the easier it is to correct.

Don’t Panic, Just Be Proactive

Thumb sucking and pacifier use aren’t bad. They serve a purpose early on. They help kids feel safe. But there’s a window. After a certain point, the habit can start to affect how the mouth grows. It’s not about blame. It’s about timing. Watch the pattern. If the habit fades on its own by age three, chances are good that no harm is done. If it’s still going strong after four or five, take a closer look. Early support makes all the difference. Most habits can be managed gently, without pressure. And if needed, treatment is available and highly effective when started early. Pacifiers are routinely not recommended by the paediatrician and often should be avoided. Thumbsucking causes oral deleterious effects but mostly there is an underlying issue which could be a cause of prolonged thumb sucking habit and that should be addressed promptly.