Recognition, Intervention and Management of Digit Sucking: A Clinical Guide for the General Dental Practitioner

Abstract

Digit sucking is a common habit in young children, which if allowed to continue for a prolonged period, can adversely affect the development of the face and dental occlusion. Patients with digit sucking habits often present with an increased overjet, reduced overbite, anterior open bite, posterior crossbite and possible skeletal changes which can be challenging and costly to correct if the habit is not ceased in a timely manner. This article aims to provide guidance for general dental practitioners to recognise and appropriately manage patients with a digit sucking habit.