Sucking & lip biting.

For most children, sucking on their thumb or pacifier, and biting on their lips is a way to cope with the world around them. It’s a built-in security blanket. And while these habits are cute at first, they can have lasting consequences if left unchecked.

Sucking and biting can be bad for teeth and jaws. Over a long period of time, thumb sucking, pacifier use and lip biting can actually move the upper front teeth toward the lip, which can cause issues with adult teeth as they emerge.

You can stop these habits. While thumb, finger, lip and pacifier habits may be okay up until the age of four, after that it may be time to ask Dr. Bill about possible ways to curb the habits. One method includes a mouth appliance that blocks the habit. But in most cases, Dr. Bill will simply need to talk with your child about the dangers associated with his or her habit. Usually, a simple discussion is all it takes to keep a child from further engaging in the habit. Of course, there will be remissions, but with consistent reinforcement form you, he or she can easily stop.

When you talk to Dr. Bill, be sure to mention any oral habits your child may have. He’s seen them all, so nothing is out of the ordinary. Call 541-672-5535 and schedule an appointment for your child today.