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THUMB SUCKING AND ORTHODONTICS

more than smiles

Sherman & Balhoff Orthodontics
February 9, 2019

 

Along with teddy bears, blankets, and nap time, thumb sucking can be one of the most comforting aspects of childhood.  According to a recent report, between 75% and 95% of infants suck their thumbs.  So, chances are there’s a thumb-sucker (or a former thumb-sucker) in your family.  In most cases, this is not cause for worry.  However, it’s important to pay attention to your child’s habits, in case his/her behavior has the potential to affect their oral health.  Continued thumb sucking can effect the shape and size of the developing upper jaw bone and can create a protrusion of the teeth.

What is Thumb Sucking?
Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant, and it serves an important purpose. Sucking often provides a sense of security and contentment for a young one. It can also be relaxing, which is why many children suck their thumbs as they fall asleep.  According to the American Dental Association, most children stop thumb sucking on their own between the ages of two and four.

When is Thumb Sucking a Problem or an Orthodontic Issue?
Some children, however, continue sucking beyond the preschool years.  If your child is still sucking when his/her permanent teeth start to erupt, it is time to take action to break or change the course of the habit.  It is very common for children to stop after being told by their pediatric dentist or orthodontist.  A useful tool in aiding them in breaking their thumb-sucking habit is a product called Mavala Stop.  This is an extremely bitter formula that you paint on like nail polish.  Mavala Stop can be purchased online, through our office, or through your pediatric dentist.

When Do I Need to Seek a Professional Evaluation?
The AAO – American Association of Orthodontists, along with Dr. Sherman and Dr. Balhoff, recommends that a child’s first visit to an orthodontic specialist should occur no later than age seven.  Children who suck their thumbs may benefit from an orthodontic evaluation as early as four or five years of age. An early orthodontic examination can be a valuable preventative measure in controlling dental and skeletal irregularities in a growing child, like those caused by thumb sucking.  While most children do not start treatment at this time, early treatment and management of a patient’s skeletal growth before most of the permanent teeth have erupted or simple interceptive treatment to control harmful habits.  Some preventative treatment may be indicated including limited braces, thumb cribs, or rapid palatal expanders.  Such early, interceptive treatment can allow the jaws and the permanent teeth to grow more properly.  This may reduce additional orthodontic treatment potentially needed if thumb-sucking is continued.  In some cases, proper treatment timing can achieve results that are not easily attained once the face and jaws have finished growing.  Even if your child is not a thumb-sucker, it I still important to see an orthodontist by the age of seven.

By: David A. Balhoff, DDS – Orthodontic Specialist

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We love it when our patients smile, and we love it even more when want they want to tell the world! Check out what our patients have to say about their 5-star experience with us.
Valenssia B.
I was a bit nervous to get adult braces, and the team helped by making me feel very comfortable. Customer service and professionalism has been exceptional. Looking forward to the rest of my journey.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that our team made you feel comfortable during your journey with adult braces. We look forward to supporting you every step of the way!
Chuck S.
Drs. Sherman and Balhoff straightened my kids' teeth, and now I'm getting Invisalign for my teeth that are once again on the move. Dr. Kiebach's work only lasted so long. Definitely recommend to anyone considering braces or Invisalign. They are very friendly and have a welcoming office.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Chuck! We're thrilled to hear that you and your kids are enjoying your orthodontic journey with us. Your recommendation means a lot, and we look forward to seeing you again!
Jennifer T.
We love all the doctors and staff here. Experienced and friendly staff. They are always accommodating also.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Jennifer! We appreciate your kind words about our experienced and friendly team. It's our pleasure to accommodate your needs and help you achieve your smile goals. Looking forward to seeing you again!
Kaitlyn M.
After my 13 year old retainer snapped in half, I needed a quick solution. However, my original orthodontist retired which caused a huge problem. Who was going to fix it? I called around my hometown… no one would take outside patients. My sweet dentist did his best to glue the retainer back on temporarily, but considering this wasn’t his specialty, he failed to do it properly. My wire was now one wrong move away from slicing my lip open. As a last resort, I called Sherman and Balhoff panicking that no one would fix my retainer, and explained it was causing me pain. They booked me for the next day. Not even 24 hrs after giving them the call, my retainer was fixed. Shoutout to Roxanne who fixed it perfectly and made sure my bite wasn’t off and nothing was sticking me. This team is truly amazing. I would’ve still been panicking had it not been for them. 10/10 all around!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Kaitlyn! We're thrilled to hear that our team was able to quickly resolve your retainer issue. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your kind words!
darrione C.
I brought my daughter here for a consult for braces; he definitely earned our trust as a patient. He’s trustworthy, caring, and a man of God. He shows so much compassion, even for my son, who wasn’t there to see him. I am very pleased and definitely recommend this orthodontist.May God continue to bless your business! Dr.Balhoff thank you!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you and your daughter felt comfortable and cared for during your visit. Your recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to seeing you again!
Heather E.
Ashley Mannino has been a huge help to our family throughout the years!!! Blessed to have her!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, Heather! We're thrilled to hear that Ashley has made such a positive impact on your family. Your support means a lot to us!
Kaitlyn S.
My son just got his braces at the Prairieville location. Very friendly staff, Rachel did a great job explaining the financial aspects of the treatment. Roxanne and Dr. Sherman did a great job at making him feel comfortable while getting his braces put on. Thank you.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful review, Kaitlyn! We're thrilled to hear that your son felt comfortable during his treatment. Our team is dedicated to providing excellent care and support. We appreciate your trust in us!
Adelyn F.
When I came in for my consultation, I was greeted by Ashley! She was super sweet and already had all of my info up and ready! I was checked in within a minute! Absolutely amazing!!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Adelyn! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with Ashley. Our team strives to provide efficient and friendly service, and your feedback is greatly appreciated. Looking forward to seeing you again!
Alicia C.
My daughter just got braces at Sherman and Balhoff Prairieville's office. We are very pleased with the way the entire process. The staff are excellent! Very friendly, caring, and professional. They took great care of us by explaining every part of the process, and that put all our concerns to rest. I will always highly recommend Sherman and Balhoff. They're the best!!!!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that you and your daughter had a positive experience with our team. Your recommendations mean a lot to us. We look forward to seeing you again!
MDU U.
From the very first time you walk though the door, it is a wonderful experience. The staff are all friendly, kind and knowledgeable. We have a wonderful experience every time and cannot recommend this practice highly enough.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind review. Having wonderful people like you in our office makes our days spectacular!
Carly D.
After having my braces off for only 7 months from a previous orthodontist, I switched to S&B after not being happy with my results and incomplete treatment. One of the best decisions I've made. Great with time management, quick and easy appointments, friendly staff. Definitely recommend.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your positive experience, Carly! We're thrilled to hear that switching to Sherman & Balhoff Orthodontics has made such a difference for you. Our team is dedicated to providing efficient and friendly service, and your recommendation means a lot to us. We look forward to continuing to support your orthodontic journey!
Allison K.
They are amazing with everyone. My daughter just had braces put on in May and they have been wonderful with questions, etc.
Response from the owner:Allison thank you for your kind words about us and our staff. We work diligently day in and day out to provide the best patient experience possible, so it’s wonderful to hear when we meet our goals!
Dana G.
I used Sherman and Balhoff myself as an adult and now my daughter is a patient there. They are the best and go above and beyond for their patients. Dr. Sherman even came back after closing because my daughter was having an issue with her bite after getting her braces put on. He was so very nice and professional. I would recommend them to anyone.
Response from the owner:Dana thank you for your kind words! Your vote of confidence in our practice is why we do what we do!
Spunky E.
I only been in for first appointment and so far it has been great. The facility is great and the staff is all fantastic!
Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to leave us a great 5-star review!

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