Thumb Sucking
OFM – A Gentle Way to Stop Thumb Sucking Habits
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Orofacial myology (OFM) is a specialised discipline used by dental and speech professionals in order to evaluate and treat a variety of oral, facial and postural functional disorders.
Reasons to seek help from
an Orofacial Myologist
Most children stop sucking their thumb or fingers before they are 3-4 years of age this includes dummies, blankies or anything that could cause a defective bite.
If children are 4 years of age and over, this habit can begin to cause problems which are social as well as physical. Kicking the habit before starting primary school is the aim.
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What Problems Can a Thumb Sucking Habit Cause?
Prolonged thumb sucking can lead to:
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Protruding teeth – over bite or open bite
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Speech problems – lisp
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Breathing – mouth breathing instead of nose breathing
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Tongue – low and forward tongue position instead of high in the palate
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How Does an OFM Session for Thumb Sucking Work?
Your first visit to an Orofacial Myologist will assess face, teeth, posture and breathing. We will discuss gently, how to help your little one overcome this emotive time and we
will make it fun!
Parental involvement is paramount to your child's outcome, however I am only a call away when things get tough. I am based in Caringbah but mobile for busy families.
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The key is to ACT EARLY!
If left untreated, problems resulting from a thumb sucking habit can lead to costly orthodontic treatment.
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Through positive reinforcement techniques, using various tools and reminders, I can help your child break the habit.
