Thumb-sucking is one of the most common habits in early childhood, and for many kids, it’s simply a comforting way to self-soothe. But when it continues past the toddler years, it can start to affect the way a child’s teeth and jaw develop. If your child can’t seem to kick the habit on their own, a thumb crib may be a simple and effective solution—but as a parent, you may not be familiar with what these devices are. Here’s everything you need to know!
What Exactly Is a Thumb Crib?
A thumb crib, sometimes also called a tongue crib, is a small, fixed appliance that is attached to a particular area of the mouth. It doesn’t cause pain or discomfort, but it does create a physical barrier that makes thumb sucking far less satisfying, which naturally discourages the habit over time in kids. And because it’s fixed in place, your child can’t remove it on their own, which also takes the pressure off both kids and parents when it comes to breaking the habit.
In fact, most children end up stopping thumb sucking within the first few weeks of wearing a thumb crib simply because it no longer feels the same. As an added bonus, the crib also helps to train the tongue to rest properly against the roof of the mouth, rather than pressing forward. This in turn supports healthy dental development, since tongue thrust can actually cause dental misalignment and impact how future teeth come in.
What to Expect After a Thumb Crib Is Placed?
It’s normal for a child to feel some mild pressure or discomfort after a thumb crib is placed, and they might also notice a change in speech for the first few days. This typically resolves as they adjust, but it’s important to encourage them to remain positive and maintain good habits, especially including brushing and flossing every day. Most children end up wearing a thumb crib for six months to a year, but the exact timeline depends on how quickly the habit is broken, combined with their individual development.
Are Thumb Cribs Always Necessary?
Remember, not every child who sucks their thumb will need a thumb crib. In many cases, gentle reminders or a reward system are enough to break the habit before it causes lasting changes, but if your child is older, the habit seems fairly persistent, or you’re already beginning to notice differences in their bite, it might be time to speak with their dentist.
All in all, a thumb crib is a small, simple appliance that has a very big and important job: helping your child break their stubborn habit and ensuring their future smile’s development is protected!
About the Practice
Our team here at Simply Orthodontics has been a staple here in the New England community for several years, offering a wide range of orthodontic solutions for children of all ages. Whether your little one needs braces to straighten their teeth or one of many custom-made orthodontic appliances, such as a tongue crib, to help their smile thrive, our team is here to help. If you have any questions about the blog or need to schedule an appointment for your child, you can call or reach out online for more information or to find the location closest to you.
Follow Us