Bad habits during the growth period of bones are one of the primary causes of damage to the oral structure. And persistent bad habits can lead to abnormalities in the oral structure even after the permanent teeth have arrived.

The sucking of a pacifier or a finger causes the upper incisors to protrude, the lower incisors to fall inward, open bites (the gap between the upper and lower incisors), and malocclusion of the molars. Also, sticking out the chin leads to malocclusion, and sticking out the tongue leads to an open bite.

According to experts, these habits are frequently observed before the age of 4, and then rapidly decrease around the age of 6. Therefore, for oral habits before the age of 4, observation and counseling rather than treatment are suggested.

Professor MiSun Kim of the Department of Pediatrics (Adolescent) Dentistry at Kyunghee University Hospital in Gangdong stated, “The timed correction of the bad habits would improve an abnormality in the oral structure as permanent teeth emerge.” She stressed, “However, if the ongoing bad habits after the age of 6 can lead to abnormalities in the oral structure, so the use of a habit cessation device would help.”

Children often unconsciously repeat their oral habits. Therefore, the guardian should make the children aware that the behavior is improper and encourage them to correct the behaviors on their own. Professor MiSun Kim expressed, "However since the main cause of bad oral habits is psychological stress, parents should avoid scolding or pointing it out.” She emphasized, “parents need to be cautious of the possible opposite effect."

Wrapping a bandage on the finger and applying a strong odor such as onion or garlic or a bitter medicine to the finger can alleviate the bad habits.

Tips. Bad habits that harm the oral structure during growth period

Reported by HoonYoung AhnㅣTranslated by Jini Jung 다른기사 보기