As children get older they can develop the habit of sucking the finger or thumb. Unfortunately, thumb sucking can have long-term negative side effects, if the habit persists after age four. So, as a parent, you need to stop thumb sucking habits of your child. Possible side effects of prolonged or intense sucking thumb include the following five.
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1. Open Bite
Malocclusion is the permanent type of side effect of thumb sucking. Malocclusion is a categorical term that describes a misalignment of the tooth that is visible when the mouth is closed. The types of malocclusion caused by thumb sucking are overbite and an open bite.
2. Overbite
Overbite occurs when the teeth become outwardly. This misalignment is limited to the upper teeth. This means that the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth. Overbite malocclusion can affect the shape of the face and smile.
3. Skin Problems
Children who suck their thumbs over the years may experience skin problems or serious harm. In some cases, the skin may crack and bleed. If your child is having major problems of the skin due to thumb sucking, you may need to discourage the behavior affected by the thumb bandaged, by placing tguard on the finger or thumb guard.
4. Speech Impediment
Because thumb sucking affect the development of the teeth and jaw, the habit can also change the way your child eats and talks. Thumb sucking can cause speech disorders, including an inability to pronounce hard consonant sounds such as "D" and "T."
5. Social Issues
Children who suck their thumbs in public can become the target of ridicule. While thumb sucking is a habit of a normal childhood, the more your child grows, other people may judge to continue the habit.
