Your smile is a vital part of who you are. It can be an important part of your first impression, and it can be a source of attractivity and confidence. Lip-sucking is a common and overlooked habit that could have a seriously negative impact on your smile. Dr. Tad Morgan, DDS, discusses the effects of lip-sucking and offers techniques to avoid this habit.
What is Lip Sucking?
Lip sucking is a habit in which a person tucks their lips inside their mouth for extended periods of time. It is commonly seen in younger children, and often begins in infancy. Lip-sucking can be a comforting action, especially when the child is tired or stressed. It does however become a problem when the habit becomes more regular and lasts into the child’s older years. For adults, though less frequent, the habit can sometimes linger as well.
What Are the Potential Problems that Lip-Sucking Can Cause?
Lip-sucking causes undue pressure on the teeth and the surrounding oral structures. This can lead to changes in the position of the teeth, and make them more prone to decay and disease. Teeth can become crooked or crowded, which can have a negative impact on your smile. Additionally, lip-sucking can cause problems with jaw alignment, as well as lead to problems with breathing.
What Can We Do to Address Lip-Sucking?
The first step in dealing with lip-sucking is to become more aware of it and be watchful. Awareness of the situation will allow the child to recognize the problem and take steps to negate it, if it’s a younger child. Talking to the older child or adult is the best approach. It is important to make them aware that there may be some negative repercussions as they continue the habit. This awareness can be beneficial in motivating the person to stop.
Other techniques to use in overcoming lip-sucking include wearing a mouth guard to make the action less appealing. An important step in stopping lip-sucking is a visit to the dentist. The dentist can address any dental changes that have occurred because of lip-sucking. Additionally, the dentist can offer strategies for overcoming the habit.
The Bond Dental & Orthodontics Center
Dr. Tad Morgan, DDS, is passionate about helping his patients achieve their best smile. His goal is to provide individuals of all ages with high-quality dental care in Sterling, VA. Dr. Morgan takes a comprehensive approach to care, taking into context factors such as lifestyle, oral health status, and the beliefs and goals of his patients. His office, The Bond Dental & Orthodontics Center, provides a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Whether it be teaching patients about the ramifications of lip-sucking and how to stop it, or instructing patients on how to properly care for their teeth and gums, Dr. Morgan and his team offer patient education. His ultimate objective is for patients to have the knowledge and tools they need to maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.
Conclusion
Your smile is an important part of who you are. Lip-sucking is a an all-too-common habit that can have a serious negative impact on the quality of your smile. Dr. Tad Morgan, DDS, and The Bond Dental & Orthodontics Center in Sterling, VA, are committed to helping patients avoid lip-sucking and maintain a bright and healthy smile. With a comprehensive approach to care, The Bond Dental & Orthodontics Center introduces patients to effective strategies for avoiding lip-sucking and practicing proper oral health habits.