Thumb Sucking Appliances
Thumb sucking appliances are used to break thumb-sucking or pacifier habits in children and adults.
Thumb/Habit Appliances
A thumb-sucking appliance prevents the placement of the thumb into the mouth in a comfortable position. It’s used to break thumb-sucking habits with children and, occasionally, with adults.
Thumb-sucking devices are built custom for your mouth, so each appliance requires a consultation by your dentist before it can be built. Once the appliance is inserted into the mouth, the thumb-sucking habit is broken over time. If your child is suffering because of a thumb-sucking habit, contact one of our offices, and we’ll be happy to discuss further.
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How is a thumb sucking appliance made?
A thumb sucking appliance is made in four steps:
First, your child is examined by your dental provider and a prescription for a thumb sucking or habit appliance is created.
Second, an impression or digital scan of your child’s mouth is taken so the appliance can be custom made.
Third, a dental lab will fabricate and build the appliance.
Fourth, your dental provider will schedule a time to provide you with the appliance. Thumb sucking appliances can be permanent or removable so the length of this visit is determined by the type of thumb sucking appliance your dentist prescribes.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about thumb-sucking appliances, you can contact us, request an appointment for your child, or explore the other pediatric dental services we offer using the links below.