Pacifiers and thumb-sucking can be a great source of comfort for babies, but what happens if the habit lingers too long? While pacifiers and thumb-sucking are normal during infancy, prolonged use can lead to oral health issues. According to the AAPD, it’s recommended that children stop these habits by age three.

How do these habits impact oral health?

If thumb-sucking or pacifier use continues beyond age three, it can affect the alignment of your child’s teeth and jaws. In severe cases, it can cause bite problems such as an open bite or crossbite. Over time, this may require orthodontic intervention to correct.

The good news is that most children naturally give up pacifiers and thumb-sucking between ages 2-4. However, if your child is struggling to break the habit, gentle encouragement and positive reinforcement can help. The earlier the habit is stopped, the less likely it is to cause long-term issues.

The AAPD advises parents to speak with their pediatric dentist if they’re concerned about thumb-sucking or pacifier use, as a dental professional can provide helpful strategies to stop these habits in a healthy, non-stressful way.