Thumb Cribs – Amityville
Put an End to Thumb-Sucking
It’s common for young children to suck their thumbs, and many naturally outgrow the habit at an early age. However, when thumb sucking continues for a long time or becomes frequent, it may begin to impact your child’s dental development. Persistent thumb sucking can interfere with the proper growth of the teeth and jaw, potentially affecting facial appearance, bite alignment, chewing function, and even breathing patterns. Our team is here to support you in preventing these complications. In some cases, we may suggest a thumb crib. To learn more about thumb cribs or to schedule a consultation for your child, give us a call!
Why Choose Amityville Orthodontics for Thumb Cribs?
- State-of-the-Art Dental Technology
- Flexible Financing Options
- Saturday Appointments Available
What Are Thumb Cribs?
A thumb crib, also called a palatal crib, is a customized oral appliance that creates a fence or cage just beneath the roof of the mouth. IT will not interfere with your child’s ability to eat or speak. However, it will prevent the pressure and sucking sensation that occur at the top of the mouth during thumb sucking. This way, your child will find less satisfaction when sucking their thumb, helping them to let go of this habit for good!
The Process of Getting a Thumb Crib
If your child is older than 3 years old and still regularly sucks their thumb, they are likely a good candidate for a thumb crib. We will examine their smile and recommend next steps. If a thumb crib is right for your child, we will design the appliance and book them for a future appointment so we can place it. After placement, your child may experience some tenderness, but this should go away after a few days.
The Benefits of a Thumb Crib
The greatest benefit of a thumb crib is that it can help to protect your child’s oral health. By preventing thumb sucking, a thumb crib can promote healthy development of your child’s oral structures. Ultimately, they are less likely to experience problems like gaps between their teeth, sleep apnea, difficulty chewing, and other issues. Preventing these issues can help to save money and prevent discomfort for your child.