Parents have always been warned that thumb-sucking can have a negative impact on the dental health for kids. One of the problems we see at Vanguard Dental Group in Derry NH is a type of malocclusion called an open bite.
An open bite occurs when the front teeth in the lower and upper jaw have been moved forward; often to the extent that they do not meet when the mouth is closed. In most cases, an open bite has been caused by thumb sucking, but pacifiers and tongue thrusting can also move teeth out of alignment.
Tongue thrusting refers to an abnormal swallowing action in which the tongue is pushed forward during swallowing. Normally, the tongue is on the roof of the mouth and the teeth closed completely when swallowing. A tongue-thrusting habit can develop due to factors other than thumb sucking, though this is a common cause. Allergies, large tonsils, tongue size, jaw angle, muscular problems, frequent sore throats, and anything that makes swallowing difficult can result in a tongue-thrusting habit.
At Vanguard Dental Group in Derry NH, we keep a close eye on dental heath of kids. We offer pediatric dentistry, with an emphasis on early dental care. Schedule an appointment for your child today.
Call Vanguard Dental Group at
603-276-1000
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
19D Manchester Rd Ste 3
Derry, New Hampshire
03038