To soothe or not to soothe

A natural calming agent for babies, self-soothing has many benefits. However, after the age of two, the palate begins to expand laterally. Depending on the intensity, duration and frequency of the habit, when carried into the toddler years, thumb and finger sucking as well as pacifier use and other self-soothing behaviors may impact jaw growth and the position of the later erupting adult teeth. In some cases these habits can even result in an open bite. Be sure to discuss concerns regarding self-soothing with your child's pediatrician and dentist.

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