Thumb sucking leads to a high chance of “open bite” which is difficult to correct.

Dummy use should be curbed from 12 months of age as long term use may lead to:

• Incorrect position of upper teeth
• Mouth breathing and long term dribbling
• Speech and language problems
• Tooth decay

Dummy Tips

• Never dip dummies in sweet things such as honey, jams or syrups – this can lead to rapid tooth decay.
• Avoid sucking on your child’s dummy as bacteria will spread from your mouth to your child’s.
• Follow good hygiene procedures, clean and sterilise your baby’s dummy every day.