Oral habits such as thumb sucking, finger sucking and tongue thrusting are common in young children. These behaviors often begin in infancy and serve as a source of comfort and security. While many children naturally outgrow these habits by age 4, some may continue beyond the recommended age, putting their dental health at risk. If not addressed, these habits can lead to orthodontic problems that affect both function and appearance. Dr. Emily Austin and Dr. Michael Tew offer habit breaking treatments in Bluffdale, Utah, help your child stop negative oral habits and enjoy better oral health as they grow.
Why Breaking the Habit Matters
Prolonged thumb or finger sucking can interfere with the normal development of the mouth and jaw. It may cause teeth to shift out of alignment, leading to issues such as open bites, overbites or crossbites. Tongue thrusting — when the tongue pushes against the front teeth during speaking, swallowing or resting — can create similar alignment concerns and may even affect speech development. Addressing these habits early is important to prevent long-term dental complications and to support your child’s overall oral health.
Customized Oral Appliances
Our experienced pediatric dentists and team offer several oral appliances designed to help your child break unwanted habits gently and effectively. Thumb and finger sucking appliances act as reminders, discouraging the behavior without causing discomfort. For tongue thrusting, we may recommend a specialized appliance that retrains the muscles of the tongue. These devices work like physical therapy for the mouth, helping your child develop healthy muscle patterns for speaking, eating and resting.
Support at Home
In addition to professional treatments, our team will provide you with simple and supportive strategies to try at home. Covering the fingers with a glove or sock at bedtime or during quiet time can reduce the urge to suck. Positive reinforcement, such as reward charts, can also encourage progress. Sometimes, these habits are linked to emotional stress and helping your child feel secure and supported can go a long way toward success.
Compassionate, Child-Focused Care
When you visit The Point Pediatric Dentistry, we will work with you to evaluate your child’s specific needs. We take a gentle, understanding approach and offer treatments tailored to your child’s comfort and personality. To learn more about habit breaking treatments in Bluffdale, Utah, or to schedule an appointment with our pediatric dentists , please contact us today at 801-890-1161.