Thumb sucking is a natural habit for most children, but if they don’t break the habit by age three or four it can lead to dental and orthodontic problems.
At Ragan Orthodontics, we have a number of techniques and devices that will prevent your child from sucking his or her thumb and avoid dental health problems as they grow. To learn more or to schedule an appointment at one of our three Dallas area locations, contact Ragan Orthodontics today. We have offices in Lakewood, Preston Hollow and Park Cities.
One method that can prevent children from continuing to suck their thumbs is the use of the Thumb Guard appliance, which is worn on the hand.
The Thumb Guard, also known as the TGuard, has been recommended by orthodontists, dentists and pediatricians for two decades and parents have found it an effective tool to stop children from sucking their thumbs.
How Does The Thumb Guard Work?
While some devices prevent children from sucking their thumbs entirely, the TGuard allows them to do so, but with one major difference. The TGuard removes suction that gives children the soothing and pleasing feeling that reinforces thumb sucking. Once that pleasurable and soothing feeling is removed, the child’s desire to suck his or her thumb is removed as well.
Studies indicate the Thumb Guard successfully ceases thumb sucking in children 95 percent of the time.
The TGuard is made in the U.S. from plastic material that is safe and approved by federal officials. Simply put, TGuard is among the safest and most effective methods to end thumb sucking in children.
Because the TGuard is made of flexible and soft plastic, cleaning the device is fast and easy. Unlike some products that are placed on children’s nails to stop thumb sucking, the Thumb Guard contains no chemicals that might make your child ill.
The Thumb Guard is designed for comfort and children can wear it anytime, at play or at school and at night while they sleep. The TGuard is simple to use and has a special locking system that will keep the Thumb Guard on your child’s hand so it won’t get lost – and parents won’t have to purchase replacements.
Our Thumb Guards are a great method to end childhood thumb sucking. Similar products also are available to help children who suck their fingers.
At Ragan Orthodontics, Dr. Michael Ragan and our team of friendly and talented professionals meet with parents and their children to discuss the Thumb Guard and how to properly use it. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about the Thumb Guards and can provide instruction on how to use the device on your child for the best results.
Many children suck their thumbs and fingers as babies and toddlers because of the soothing and calming effects these actions bring. But children will reach an age when it becomes unacceptable to do so, and they may be teased by classmates. More importantly, children may be damaging their teeth and gums if they continue the habit for too long.
If your child won’t stop sucking his or her thumb, help is available to get them to stop. Contact Ragan Orthodontics today to learn how the orthodontic Thumb Guard can help your child kick the thumb-sucking habit.
