--- title: "Thumb Sucking and Pacifiers: Effects on Teeth | Town Center Dental" description: "Thumb sucking and pacifier use are normal in babies. See when they can affect teeth and the bite, when children usually stop and how to help without pressure." url: https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/blog/thumb-sucking-and-pacifiers-effects-on-teeth publisher: Town Center Dental phone: +1-636-273-5866 quote: https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/request-appointment --- # Thumb Sucking and Pacifiers: Effects on Teeth Thumb sucking and pacifier use are normal for babies. They matter for teeth when they continue strongly past ages 2 to 4, as adult teeth are about to come in. Then they may change the bite and the shape of the mouth. Most children stop on their own, and gentle encouragement helps. Kids and familyPublished October 26, 20265 min read ## Does thumb sucking or pacifier use hurt a child’s teeth? It can, but only in certain conditions. The American Dental Association (ADA) says thumbsucking is a natural reflex for children, and sucking can make babies feel secure and happy. It matters for teeth when it goes on strongly for years, after [adult teeth](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/tooth-eruption) start to come in. The ADA says that after adult teeth come in, sucking may cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth and the alignment of the teeth. It can also cause changes in the roof of the mouth. Your child’s dentist can watch for these changes at regular visits. ## What decides whether there is a problem? Mostly how hard, how long and how old. The ADA says the intensity of the sucking is a factor. Children who rest a thumb passively in the mouth are less likely to have trouble than those who suck vigorously. Some aggressive thumb suckers may develop problems with their baby teeth. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says that if a child sucks strongly on a pacifier, thumb or fingers beyond 2 to 4 years of age, it may affect the shape of the mouth or how the teeth line up. Strong, long habits cause the most concern. Age What to know Baby and young toddler Sucking is normal and comforting Around 12 months and later The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) says pacifier use past 12 months can raise ear infection risk Beyond 18 months The AAPD says prolonged pacifier use can influence jaw and bite development Ages 2 to 4 The ADA says most children stop in this window As adult front teeth are about to come in A good point to talk with your dentist if the habit continues ## Is a pacifier better or worse than a thumb? They affect teeth in much the same ways. The ADA says pacifiers can affect teeth essentially the same as fingers and thumbs, but a pacifier is often an easier habit to break. You can take a pacifier away, and you cannot take away a thumb. The AAPD notes that pacifiers may be beneficial in the first few months of life, for example by offering comfort and soothing. It also says that prolonged use past 12 months can raise the risk of ear infection, and past 18 months can influence the growing mouth, which can lead to an open bite, a crossbite and other bite problems. You can read about these in our glossary: [open bite](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/open-bite) and [crossbite](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/crossbite). Ask your child’s doctor and dentist when to start phasing out the pacifier. ## When do most children stop? Most stop between ages two and four. The ADA says children usually stop between two and four years old, or by the time the adult front teeth are ready to erupt. The AAP adds that, most often, children will stop on their own. If you are unsure where your child stands, ask the dentist at your next visit to check how the teeth and bite are growing. A quick look can settle a lot of worry. ## How can I help my child stop? Gentle steps work better than pressure. The ADA suggests praising your child for not sucking. It also notes that children often suck when they feel insecure or need comfort, so the answer may be to address the worry, not the thumb. Try these steps: 1. Praise and reward your child when they do not suck, as the AAP suggests. 2. If boredom is the trigger, keep their hands busy with something fun. 3. Explain what you are doing, so your child feels part of it. 4. Avoid harsh words, teasing or punishment. The AAP says these can upset your child and do not work. 5. Ask your dentist for advice and encouragement. The ADA says a dentist can explain to your child what could happen to their teeth. The AAP also says a child might still suck to go to sleep or calm down when upset. When that happens in private, it is usually not harmful. Too much pressure to stop may cause more harm than good. ## Should I offer a pacifier at all? That is a choice for you and your child’s doctor. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) supports parents in deciding whether to introduce a pacifier based on the infant’s needs and parental preference. The AAP says offering a pacifier at nap time and bedtime helps reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The AAPD also warns about prolonged use, as the table above shows. Ask your pediatrician about safe use, and ask your dentist how the habit is affecting your child’s teeth. ## When should I call the dentist? Call if you see changes. The ADA says to consult your dentist if you notice changes in your child’s baby teeth or are concerned about the habit. Changes in how the teeth line up are a good reason to book a visit. The ADA says that if simple tips do not work, your dentist or pediatrician may suggest a bitter coating for the thumb or a mouth appliance. That is a conversation to have in the office, not a decision to make at home. For more on what to expect at a first visit, read [when a baby should see the dentist](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/blog/when-should-a-baby-see-the-dentist) and our [child’s first dental visit guide](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/childs-first-dental-visit). If you are also wondering about timing, see when [baby teeth fall out](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/blog/when-do-baby-teeth-fall-out-a-chart-for-parents). ## What should I tell the dentist at the visit? Bring a few simple facts. Note when your child started sucking, how often it happens, whether it happens mostly at sleep time, and whether it is a thumb, fingers or a pacifier. Say what you have already tried. Mention anything you have noticed about the front teeth, such as a gap or teeth that seem to stick out. Honest details help the dentist judge how strong the habit is, since intensity is one factor the ADA names. They also help the dentist choose gentle advice that fits your child, rather than a one-size answer. ## Next step If your child is past age four and still sucks a thumb or pacifier, or you see changes in the teeth, ask for an exam. Read about [dentistry for kids](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/services/dentistry-for-kids) at Town Center Dental, then call (636) 273-5866 or [request an appointment](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/request-appointment). ## Frequently asked questions ### At what age should a child stop sucking their thumb? The American Dental Association says children usually stop between ages two and four, or by the time the permanent front teeth are ready to come in. If your child is still sucking strongly after that, talk with your dentist. ### Is a pacifier better than a thumb for teeth? They affect teeth in much the same ways. The American Dental Association says pacifiers can affect teeth essentially the same ways as sucking fingers and thumbs, but a pacifier is often an easier habit to break because you can take it away. ### Will thumb sucking ruin my child's teeth? Not usually. The American Dental Association says the intensity of the sucking is a factor. Children who rest a thumb passively are less likely to have trouble than those who suck vigorously. Your dentist can check how your child's teeth and bite are developing. ### Should I punish or tease my child to stop? No. HealthyChildren.org from the American Academy of Pediatrics says harsh words, teasing or punishment may upset your child and are not an effective way to end the habit. Praise and gentle reminders work better. ## Terms on this page - [Thumb sucking](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/thumb-sucking) - [Crossbite](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/crossbite) - [Open bite](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/glossary/open-bite) ## Sources 1. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 2. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 3. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 4. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 5. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 6. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 7. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 8. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 9. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 10. [HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Baby Pacifiers & Thumb Sucking](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Pacifiers-and-Thumb-Sucking.aspx) 11. [HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Baby Pacifiers & Thumb Sucking](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Pacifiers-and-Thumb-Sucking.aspx) 12. [HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Baby Pacifiers & Thumb Sucking](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Pacifiers-and-Thumb-Sucking.aspx) 13. [HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Baby Pacifiers & Thumb Sucking](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Pacifiers-and-Thumb-Sucking.aspx) 14. [HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Baby Pacifiers & Thumb Sucking](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Pacifiers-and-Thumb-Sucking.aspx) 15. [HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Baby Pacifiers & Thumb Sucking](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Pacifiers-and-Thumb-Sucking.aspx) 16. [American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry: Policy on Pacifiers](https://www.aapd.org/research/oral-health-policies--recommendations/p_pacifiers.pdf/) 17. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 18. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 19. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 20. [American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Thumbsucking](https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/thumbsucking) 21. [HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Baby Pacifiers & Thumb Sucking](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Pacifiers-and-Thumb-Sucking.aspx) 22. [American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry: Policy on Pacifiers](https://www.aapd.org/research/oral-health-policies--recommendations/p_pacifiers.pdf/) 23. [HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Baby Pacifiers & Thumb Sucking](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Pacifiers-and-Thumb-Sucking.aspx) Written by Town Center Dental and checked against the sources above on October 26, 2026. Dental guidance changes, so check the linked page, and ask your dentist about your own care. ## Keep reading - [Your Child's First Dental Visit: When To Start, What To Expect, and When Teeth Come and GoThe ADA and the AAP say to schedule your child's first dental visit after the first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday. Most visits are short. The dentist checks the teeth and gums, talks about cleaning and habits, and plans future check-ups. Baby teeth start to come in around 6 months.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/childs-first-dental-visit) - [When Do Baby Teeth Fall Out? A Chart for ParentsBaby teeth usually start to fall out around age 5 or 6, starting with the front teeth. Most children have lost all of them by age 12 or 13. The ages in this chart are averages, and your child may be earlier or later. Your dentist can check anything that seems off.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/blog/when-do-baby-teeth-fall-out-a-chart-for-parents) - [When Should a Baby See the Dentist? The First Visit GuideA baby's first dental visit should happen after the first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday. The American Dental Association says babies can get cavities as soon as they have teeth. The visit is short. The dentist checks teeth, gums and bite, and shows you how to care for them at home.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/blog/when-should-a-baby-see-the-dentist) - [Dental Emergencies: What Counts, What To Do First, and Who To CallA dental emergency is a mouth problem that needs care right away, such as uncontrolled bleeding, severe pain that medicine does not ease, or a knocked-out tooth. Call 911 or go to an emergency room for trouble breathing or swallowing. Otherwise, call your dentist. Town Center Dental is closed Friday to Sunday.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/dental-emergency-guide) - [Full Mouth Reconstruction: Who Needs It, How It Is Planned, and What the Phases AreFull mouth reconstruction is a staged plan that rebuilds or restores many or all teeth so the mouth works better as a whole. Dentists consider it for severe wear, broken or missing teeth, gum damage, or a bite that does not fit. It starts with a full exam, treats disease first, and then restores the teeth in phases.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/full-mouth-reconstruction-guide) - [Crown, filling or onlay: which does your tooth need?The size of the damage decides the repair. A filling fits small to medium decay. An inlay or onlay fits a tooth too damaged for a filling but too healthy for a crown. A crown covers the whole tooth when too little healthy tooth remains. Your dentist chooses after an exam.](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/guides/crown-vs-filling-vs-onlay) ## Ready when you are [Request an appointment](https://towncenterdental.multisites.ai/request-appointment)[Call (636) 273-5866](tel:+1-636-273-5866)