Gelisim News

Pay attention to the thumbsucking habit in children!

As in any treatment, early diagnosis is of great importance in orthodontic treatment. Dentist Asst. Prof. Dr. Hatice Kübra Olkun mentioned that orthodontic treatment used to correct dental disorders must be done at an early age and habits such as thumbsucking cause orthodontic problems.

“Most orthodontic problems begin in early childhood”

A beautiful smile and aesthetically aligned teeth are the dreams of many. It is very important to start orthodontic treatment at an early age, which is used to correct dental disorders. Stating that if neglected, it may cause bigger problems in the future, Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU), Faculty of Dentistry, Dentist Hatice Kübra Olkun: “Most of the orthodontic problems we see in advanced ages start in early childhood and become increasingly severe. Orthodontic examination, which is carried out regularly every year from the age of 6, ensures that potential orthodontic problems are noticed and some precautions are taken. In cases such as early loss of milk teeth, caries, congenital permanent tooth deficiencies, bad habits such as thumb sucking and lower jaw prolapse due to genetic factors, starting treatment at an early age with removable or fixed appliances prevents the occurrence of bigger problems in the future.

“It can cause deterioration of the facial structure”

While orthodontic disorders do not make children feel good psychologically, they also cause them to have difficulties in eating, drinking and speaking. Emphasizing that it should not be neglected, Olkun also added the following: “Problems related to the ear, nose and throat can also cause mouth breathing in children in the early stages, and accordingly upper jaw narrowing and deterioration of the facial structure. Early orthodontic treatment should not be neglected in order for children to have a balanced face and jaw structure and healthy teeth. Awareness must be raised in our society on this issue and families must be informed.”