Habit Appliances in South Austin and Dripping Springs, TX
Habits like thumb-sucking may seem harmless at first, but they can have a significant impact on your child’s smile and oral health. If your child has a thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habit that has persisted for years, it may be time to visit Capital Springs Orthodontics for an evaluation. Our experienced orthodontist, Dr. Brad Albertson, offers habit appliances in South Austin and Dripping Springs, TX, that can assist in breaking these habits.
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Why Should You Consider Habit Appliances for Your Child?
Thumb-sucking is a very common behavioral pattern that babies or toddlers often develop as a way to soothe themselves. In most children, it stops on its own around the ages of 2 and 4 years. However, if these habits continue past the age of 6, they can affect the growth patterns of their teeth and jaws.
Repeated thumb-sucking can lead to conditions such as overbites, crossbites, crooked teeth, or misalignment. Another common habit in early childhood is tongue-thrusting, which occurs when infants push their tongues forward while swallowing.
While it usually resolves on its own, some children may develop orthodontic issues if the habit doesn’t change over time. To prevent such complications, Dr. Brad recommends habit appliance therapy from a young age to help promote your child’s normal dental and jaw development.
Questions About Habit Appliances?
How Does a Habit Appliance Control Thumb-Sucking?
For children who have the habit of frequent thumb or finger-sucking, we provide an appliance called a palatal crib. It is attached to the molars and has semi-circular wires that prevent your child’s thumb or finger from touching the palate.
Without direct contact with the palate, your child no longer receives satisfaction from thumb-sucking. Consistent use of this appliance helps most children break the habit in just a few months.
How Can Tongue-Thrusting Be Prevented?
If your child has the habit of tongue-thrusting that persists even after the age of 6 years, a similar oral appliance can be used to help break this habit. This device is designed to prevent the tongue from moving forward during swallowing, which reduces pressure on the front teeth.
When your child wears the appliance regularly, it can help retrain their muscles and prevent the development of any orthodontic issues.
FAQs
How can I tell if my child needs a habit appliance?
If your child has persistent thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits even after the age of six, you may need to consider habit appliance therapy.
Does a habit appliance hurt?
No, habit appliances are generally comfortable and easy to wear. Your child may feel some discomfort at first, but will adapt to it in a short time.
How long should a habit appliance be worn?
Most children need to wear the appliance for 3 to 6 months or until the habit breaks.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Patients’ Satisfaction Is Our Top Priority
We are thankful for the opportunity to serve our communities with the highest quality care. Check out what our patients are saying about their 5-star experience with us!
Capital Springs Ortho is fantastic! The staff is friendly, the office is spotless, and the doctor takes time to explain everything clearly. They make every visit easy and stress-free — highly recommend!
Stella L.
Capital Springs Orthodontist is amazing! They are so kind and do such a wonderful job.
Mike C.
The staff was really nice and funny. They explained everything before they did it. We’ve used this orthodontist for both kids, it’s been a great experience and we’d recommend ... Read More
Justin C.
This is an amazing orthodontics office!! After going to a lesser business for my daughter’s braces, we landed here and could not be happier!! Professional, caring, and, for me the best part...Read More
Kathleen P.
They take great care of our kids. Lots of great info, they make sure you have the details to make great decisions. Always so kind and thoughtful. Kids teeth are looking amazing!
Zach A.
Everyone is quite nice & responsive to patients and what they need to be comfortable, even if it's needing to stop for a second. Dr. Brad is very nice as well, it feels like he's been there a long time.
NJ M.
Amazing!!! Staff is always friendly, welcoming and professional. The doctors are great at explaining the process and making the kids comfortable. Highly recommend them.
Jim R.
Questions About Habit Appliances?
Schedule a Habit Appliance Consultation Today!
Before thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting starts to affect your child’s dental health, consult our expert for customized habit appliances. Contact us today!