301 N Pepper Ave Ste 200, Colton, CA 92324

Thumb-Sucking and Tongue Thrusting Habits in Colton, CA

Concerned about your child’s thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting? At Colton Pure Dentistry, Dr. Amani and Dr. Kakar provide comprehensive guidance to help parents understand and address these common childhood oral habits, ensuring healthy dental development.
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Young patient getting dental sealants to prevent cavities in Colton, CA
Kid getting sealant treatment at Colton Pure Dentistry

Understanding Oral Habits

Thumb-sucking and tongue thrusting are natural behaviors many children develop as a way to self-soothe or explore their environment. These habits become a concern when they persist beyond early childhood, potentially impacting dental and speech development. Think of these habits as communication – they often signal underlying emotional needs or comfort-seeking behaviors.

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Benefits of Early Intervention

1.

Prevent Dental Misalignment

Early identification can help avoid long-term orthodontic issues.

2.

Support Speech Development

Reduce potential impact on speech clarity and pronunciation.

3.

Emotional Understanding

Provide supportive strategies that address underlying causes.

4.

Boost Confidence

Help children develop healthier oral habits and self-awareness.
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Tongue thrusting can be a normal part of development in young children, but persistent tongue thrusting can affect tooth alignment and speech.

Our Habit Management Process

Our approach to addressing oral habits includes the following:

  1. Comprehensive Assessment: Evaluate the extent and impact of the habit on dental development
  2. Personalized Consultation: Discuss underlying triggers and emotional contexts
  3. Gentle Intervention Strategies: Develop age-appropriate approaches to modify the behavior
  4. Ongoing Support: Provide continuous guidance and monitoring
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Types of Oral Habits

Thumb-Sucking

Ranging from passive resting to active, intense sucking

Passive Tongue Thrusting

Subtle tongue positioning during rest

Active Tongue Thrusting

Pronounced tongue movement during speaking or swallowing

Comfort-Triggered Habits

Behaviors linked to stress, fatigue, or emotional states
Dentist teaching kid how to brush teeth

Who Needs Habit Intervention?

We recommend a consultation for children who:

  • Continue thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting beyond age 4-5
  • Show signs of dental misalignment related to these habits
  • Experience speech or swallowing difficulties
  • Demonstrate persistent comfort-seeking behaviors

Addressing these habits early can significantly impact a child’s dental health and overall development. Seeking professional guidance is essential for ensuring proper intervention and support.

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Creating Positive Dental Experiences

At Colton Pure Dentistry, we provide compassionate, effective solutions for dental habits that can impact oral health. Dr. Amani and Dr. Kakar take time to understand the root causes of harmful habits while developing personalized intervention strategies that work. Our comprehensive approach combines patient education, custom appliances when needed, and ongoing support to help overcome habits and protect dental health.

Schedule Your Child’s Consultation in Colton, CA Today!

If you’re concerned about your child’s thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting habits, don’t hesitate to contact us. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kakar or Dr. Bak today. We’re here to answer your questions and help your child develop healthy oral habits for life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, we’ve got answers.

If these habits persist beyond the age of 4 or 5, it’s a good idea to consult with a dentist.

If it continues beyond age 4-6, it can cause bite misalignment, speech problems, and jaw development issues.

Tongue thrusting can cause an open bite (teeth don’t close properly), leading to speech difficulties and orthodontic problems.

Treatment duration varies by child and habit severity. We’ll provide a personalized timeline during your consultation.

What Sets Us Apart

Committed to Exceptional Service

Discover the difference advanced technology, a full suite of services, and exceptional quality can make in your dental care – all tailored to give you a healthier, happier smile.

Highest Level of Dental Care

Friendly and Caring Team

Insurance & Easy Payment Plans

Schedule Your Dentist Appointment

Take the first step toward a happier, healthier smile.

Questions Answered on This Page

Related Topics

Helpful Related Links

Dentists can evaluate a child’s oral health and recommend strategies for breaking thumb-sucking and tongue thrusting habits.

Colton Pure Dentistry Dental Team

About Our Dentistry

  • CA (License 103144). View License Information
  • Insurance: We work with most insurance providers.
  • No Insurance? No problem! Call (840) 336-7600 for more information.
  • Financing Options: We offer a wide range of dental financing options.
  • We serve patients from the following counties: San Bernardino County
  • We serve patients from the following cities: Colton, Grand Terrace, San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Redlands, Fontana and Rancho Cucamonga.
  • Have Questions?  Please feel free to contact us at (840) 336-7600

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