Babies are born with a natural inclination to suck on thumbs, fingers, pacifiers, toys, and pretty much whatever else they find. Regarding thumb sucking, most children slowly grow out of this habit -- usually between the ages of three and six. Some don’t, however, and as they grow older, their thumb sucking can become a problem.

By the time a child is six, thumb sucking habits could begin to cause new, permanent teeth to grow in crookedly. This condition is called malocclusion…and it may need to be corrected by an orthodontist. Long-term thumb sucking can also lead to speech impediments, such as lisping or problems in pronouncing “T” or “D” sounds.

There are plenty of thumb sucking remedies on the market, but one of the best options may be an appointment with your dentist. Several dental appliances have been created to stop thumb sucking habits, including the Blue Grass Appliance U. This device employs a Teflon roller that makes it impossible for the child to suck their thumb. It also provides a counter-conditioning alternative – a roller that the child can spin with their tongue. The roller serves as a distraction when the child experiences boredom, anxiety or fatigue (all “triggers” for thumb sucking).

The Blue Grass Appliance U is fabricated by SML (Space Maintainers Laboratories). Ask your dentist about it today.