Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Thumb sucking habit should be eliminated prior to age 7-Dr.George Bardawil


 
Van presented in our clinic with a severe anterior openbite and protrusive incisors due to a persistent thumb sucking habit. Van was treated in Phase I with a tongue guard to break the habit, followed by braces on her upper and lower incisors to develop a proper overbite and beautiful smile aesthetics.Congratulations Van -http://www.drgeorgebardawil.com/

phase 1-habit elimination using a tongue crib




As an orthodontist I work with children, adolescents, and adults to help overcome prolonged thumbsucking habits. A thumbsucking habit (which may manifest in adulthood to a thumbnail biting habit) often results in significant skeletal deformities such as maxillary arch constriction (narrow upper jaw), aperto-gnathia (skeletal openbite or upward sloping palate), anterior dental openbite, and bilateral posterior crossbite.
We do know that habitual thumbsucking appears to be a means of relief from tension (i.e. the child is tired, hungry, or sad) and associated with pleasure and comfort. Research also shows a direct correlation between the probability of thumbsucking with the degree of introversion (shy children may have a greater likelihood of prolonged thumbsucking).Early correction of thumbsucking may prevent against the development of a skeletal or dental malocclusion, and the associated speech and masticatory difficulties. I suggest parents attempt to correct a thumb habit no later than 7 years of age, prior to the eruption of the permanent incisors. 
phase 2- after braces

It is critical to remember that a constructive, positive approach in which the patient can gain self confidence and take pride in accomplishment is always better than a destructive approach of nagging or belittling. 

 
 Dr.george bardawil -ORTHODONTIST
 Invisalign premier provider,
 speciality clinics center,
 st maamari,12th floor
 hamra,beirut lebanon
 Hamra clinic 961-1-747644
 Fanar clinic 961-1-873718 mobile 961-3-542724