Thumb Sucking & Oral Health

Children sucking their thumbs is quite common. And in of itself it really is not that big a problem, however issues start to arise when it goes beyond infancy, that’s when oral health problems start to come into play.

Generally speaking thumb sucking is abandoned by the age of 7, however, studies have shown that 1 in 8 children go on the continue past that age, in some case even into adulthood.

Usually if thumb sucking is stopped by around age 7, the teeth can readjust and fix themselves, however if it is prolonged these can lead to problems such as anterior or posterior bites, irregularities in teeth formation, intra-oral ulcers and some experts even claiming speech impairment might be a result.

Good Oral Health for Children

By teaching them young and instilling in them good oral health routines, you can prevent most of the problems that come with not looking after your teeth. And whilst they may not be happy now, you can be assured that they will thank you later!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dental check-up process?

Firstly, your dentist in Smile Hub will ask you some medical questions. Existing patients may be asked to confirm any changes since their last visit. It is important that your dentist is aware of any changes to your medical history.

Oral Examination:

Your dentist will examine inside and outside your mouth including your jaw joint. Your dentist in Smile Hub will examine your teeth, your gums, tongue, cheeks, roof of your mouth and floor of your mouth. Both existing restorations such as fillings and crowns will be assessed including teeth that are unrestored. Your dentist will also examine your bite and if you wear a removable partial or complete denture this will be inspected.

Gums:

Your dentist in Smile Hub will examine your gums. Your gums are as important as your teeth as they are the “support structure” for your teeth.

X-rays:

At frequent intervals your dentist may require x-rays as part of your dental check-up. These are small, low dosage x-ray images which help your dentist to assess your tooth/teeth structure, supporting bone and existing filling and crown restorations. Your dentist in Smile Hub may also require a large full mouth x-ray called an OPG. Please inform your dentist if you’re pregnant prior to having x-rays taken.

Teeth Cleaning:

At Smile Hub your dentist may recommend that you have your teeth cleaned during your dental visit. A simple scale and polish or airpolish procedure is important to better assess your teeth and gums. Occasionally plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth making assessment of your teeth and gums more challenging.

What happens after my dental check-up?

Once your dental exam is over a treatment plan will be discussed with you. This treatment plan is a list of dental treatments required and their associated costs. A printed copy of this treatment plan will be given to you. Advice on all aspects of your treatment is available with your dentist at all times.

When will my recall appointment be scheduled?

After your treatment is completed and if your check-up requires no intervention, your dentist will recommend the appropriate time for the next dental check-up/recall. The reception staff will have your details on file and will ensure that you are called back at the appropriate time. If you need to see us sooner than that, please contact Smile Hub Dental Clinic on 01 5253888 or Book Online Now and we will help organise this for you.

How long does a dental exam take?

The length of a dental exam depends on the patient and the dentist. Here at Smile Hub Dental Clinic, it usually only takes a few minutes to examine the teeth and take x-rays if they are needed. If the dentist finds anything that may need treatment during the examination, they will take their time to explain to you in detail what it is and the possible treatment options available. You can also ask the dentist any queries you may have regarding treatment. A treatment plan will then be made and given to you at the end of your appointment.

Can treatment be done on the same day as an exam?

In some cases, treatment can be done on the same day as an examination. If it is a short examination appointment and the dentist has other patients after this they may suggest coming back in for treatment. If you have just booked in for an exam but the dentist has time free after your appointment, they may be able to do the treatment there and then. In the case of an emergency appointment, we will always give extra time for emergency treatment to be completed as soon as possible.