Children’s oral habits: tongue, thumb, pacifier and breathing
Thumb sucking, pacifier use, tongue posture and breathing are all topics parents can discuss with the professional caring for their child. The aim is to understand the habit, how long it has lasted and its context, then choose an approach that fits the child.
Thumb sucking and pacifiers: observe without blame
Studies associate prolonged sucking habits with certain bite problems, including open bite and crossbite. They do not predict the outcome for each child. The duration of the habit and how it changes over time matter in the assessment. Doğramacı and Rossi-Fedele, 2016.
Encouragement is preferable to criticism. Discuss strategies for stopping the habit and any possible appliances with the professional. The fixed appliances studied in the Cochrane review should not be confused with a removable appliance sold directly to the public. Borrie et al., 2015.
A frequently open mouth is worth investigating
Persistent mouth breathing may need assessment by a physician or ear, nose and throat specialist. Studies show associations with some dental and facial characteristics, without demonstrating that a single habit explains their development on its own. An obstruction is not resolved simply by asking a child to close their mouth. Zhao et al., 2021.
See our guide to mouth breathing.
The tongue and swallowing
Rehabilitation is considered after an assessment. Findings in children with orofacial functional difficulties are encouraging in some situations, but the quality of the evidence remains limited. An appliance does not guarantee that orthodontic treatment will never be needed. Koletsi et al., 2018.
Read about tongue rehabilitation in children and the differences between functional appliances.
Before choosing an appliance
Ask which function or condition needs attention, which appliance is appropriate, which size and instructions apply, and how follow-up will work. The prefabricated Myoforce appliance differs from a custom orthodontic appliance. Sizing and conditions of use must be confirmed before it is used by a child.