Generally kids don’t have interest in tooth brushing. It is very difficult task for parents to make them brush. Proper brushing is necessary to avoid so many dental problems. Prevention is better than repair and replacement so brushing has more importance in oral hygiene methods.
As soon as teeth erupt, you can start using toothpaste in the amount of a grain of rice. You can increase this to a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste when your child is age 3. Brush gently all around your child’s baby teeth — front and back.
Baby teeth may be small, but they’re important. They act as placeholders for adult teeth. Without a healthy set of baby teeth, your child will have trouble chewing and speaking clearly. That’s why caring for baby teeth and keeping them decay-free is so important.
Two main dental disease, dental caries and periodontal disease frequently begin in childhood and often have long sequelae, therefore to parent these problems primary preventive dental care must begin equine life berthed onset of these diseases.
Finger tooth brushes are available in the market for brushing of baby teeth.
Dental plaque is the soft deposits adhering to the tooth surface or other hard tissues in the oral ca it’s. These deposits may also seen on the removable and fixed restoration. Dental plaque is composed primarily of microorganisms. Various microorganisms are present in dental plaque such as bacterial species and non bacterial species like yeasts, Protozoa and viruses. 20%-30% of Plaque consists of organic and inorganic materials derived from saliva, gingival crevicular fluid, and bacterial products. Organic constituents in the plaque include polysaccharides, proteins, glycoproteins and lipid. The inorganic component of plaque is primarily calcium and phosphorus,with trace amounts of other minerals such as sodium, potassium and fluoride.
Dental plaque induced Gingival Diseases
Formation of dental plaque:-
Dental plaque is white, grayishor yellow and may be readily visualised on teeth after1 to 2 days with no oral hygiene ensure. Plaque is typically observed in the gingival third of the tooth surface, where it accumulates without disruption. The process of plaque formation can be divided into three phases.
How to control plaque?
Plaque control is the removal of plaque and the prevention of its accumulation on the teeth and the adjacent gingival surfaces. Plaque control is the key to prevention and successful treatment of periodontal disease. Plaque control is accomplished by professional plaque removal and by patient performed oral hygiene. Removal of microbial plaque leads to resolution of gingival inflammation in its early stages, and cessation of plaque control measures leads to again periodontal diseases. Some common agents that are used in plaque control are
How to identify bacterial plaque deposits?
Disclosing solution is used to identify bacterial plaque. Disclosing solution is a preparation in liquid, tablet that contains a dye or other colouring agentused to identify bacterial plaque deposits for instruction, evaluation and research. Disclosing solution is used in the case of
ToothPaste:-
Toothpaste is a substance used with a toothbrush to remove bacterial plaque, material alba and debris from the gingiva and teeth.
Select the best ToothPaste for your Teeth
HERE’S WHAT THE COLOUR MARK ON THE BOTTOM OF THE TOOTHPASTE TUBE STANDS FOR
You may have never noticed it before or if you have, you may not know that the colour mark on every toothpaste tube signifies a very important thing! Usually the mark on a tube can be any of these colours: red, blue, green and black. These colours signify if the toothpaste contains chemical or natural ingredients. Wondering what your toothpaste contains? This is what the following colours signify.
BLACK: This is the most dangerous colour. It clearly indicates a presence of chemicals in the toothpaste.
RED: This is slightly less dangerous than black as black coloured label means that the composition of toothpaste is a combination of natural ingredients and chemicals.
BLUE: Blue coloured mark indicates that the toothpaste contains natural ingredients combined with the presence of medication.
GREEN: This is the best of all as green coloured mark represents the presence of only natural ingredients.
Toothbrush:-
The mechanical cleaning of teeth can be traced back to ancient times. Both powered and manual tooth brushes are available in the market. Always select the tooth brush with soft bristles and don’t use the same tooth brush for long time.
To choose a good toothbrush for your child, try the following suggestions
How to select a Toothbrush and types of Toothbrushes
When it comes to choosing the best toothbrush for your child, it’s important to opt for one that she will use properly and regularly. There are a variety of disposable and electric options available for kids. And they come in a variety of colours and often feature children’s favorite characters from classic stories and popular cartoons. Some varieties even play music to help your child know how long to brush.
Powered toothbrushes are useful for
Dental floss:-
Types of dental floss
There is no one “right” floss for everyone. In fact, there’s no reason why you can’t have several types of floss and flossing products on hand. A small container of nylon dental floss or dental tape is great for a purse, pocket or carry-on travel bag. A mint-flavoured floss can be a great choice to use when you’re traveling so you don’t have to carry a bottle of mouthwash. And when you’re at home, you can treat yourself to your electric flosser.
Flossing for children
Not all children can floss effectively. The ability to use floss is a function of age and manual dexterity. The ability to manipulate floss and remove plaque is highly dependent on hand and eye coordination and age.
Oral irrigation:-
Irrigation is the targeted application of a pulsates or steady stream of water or other irritant for a cleansing and therapeutic purpose. Oral irrigation can be done by patient or the clinician. Oral irrigation cleans adherent bacteria and debris fromthe oral cavity more effectively than do toothbrush and mouth rinse.
Mouth wash:-
A mouthwash or rinse does not replace a regular oral hygiene routine of twice-daily tooth brushing and daily flossing. The main function of most mouthwashes is to freshen breath, although if you suffer from severe chronic bad breath (halitosis), talk to your dentist about other ways to address the causes of the problem and manage your bad breath condition.
Guidelines for home oral hygiene
Prenatal counseling:-
The goal of prenatal dental couseling is primarily one of education. Even before the baby is born, parents should be counseled on how to provide an environment that will nurture good oral health habits that contribute to lifelong dental health for their child. Prenatal counseling can be quite effective because during this period are more open to health information for their child than during any other time.
Plaque control in infants
It is generally recommended that parents begin cleaning the infants mouth by the time first tooth erupts. It is suggested that secure and consistent physical support with slow, careful movement is to be employed at all time. Most have suggested that the parent wrap a damp washcloth or a piece o gauze around the index finger and clean the teeth and gum pads once a day.
As more teeth erupt the parent can begin using as all soft toothbrush. At this age ToothPaste is not necessary and may interfere with visibility for the parent. Additionally, the infant will be unable the effectively expectorate, causing unwanted ToothPaste ingestion. Several methods of positioning the infants for daily oral hygiene procedures have been suggested. One effective method is to have the parent cuddle the infant in his or her arm with one of the child arms gently slipped around the parents back. In this ways the parent can stabilise the child with one hand and work with the other.
Plaque control in toddler
The parent should be totally responsible for oral hygiene of the toddler, as for the infant. Establishing a specific routine is generally most convenient for parents and encourages the young child to develop good dental habits. As more teeth begin to erupt, parents should approach brushing systematically by beginning in one area of the mouth and progressing up in an orderly fashion. This is best accomplished by the use of a dampened, soft bristled toothbrush. If adjacent, teeth are in contact, parents should also begin to floss these areas. Although parents still have the responsibility of performing a thorough, daily
Plaque removal for their toddlers, children at the age begin to demonstrate an interest in the procedure and a desire to take part. Parents should encourage this behaviour and allow the child to attempt brushing procedures. Parents, should, however, be advised that the child efforts will be inadequate in thoroughly removing plaque. Therefore, the parent must perform a through plaque removal for the child at least once a day. As for the infant, it is so important to the parents methods of positioning andstblizing the child so that the parents will have maximum visibility as well as control over the child’s movements.
The position selected for home plaque removal procedures will depend on the cooperation of the child. Many of the techniques employed with the infants may also be applied to the toddler. One of the most effective positions is to have the parents face each other while the child is supine on the parents knees. In this position, one parent assumes the role of brushes while the other parent stabilises the child.
Plaque control in the early school stage
Because kids are beginning to develop the necessary skill, early school ages children should be encouraged to routinely attempt brushing and flossing. However the parent must continue to maintain the major responsibility by providing a thorough plaque removal for the child each evening before bed. Disclosing agents may be particularly useful in this age group when one is teaching brushing and flossing techniques. The key to the success of an oral hygiene program for the preadolescent child is to encourage parents to reinforce the instructions given in the dental hospital. After the child attempts plaque removal procedures, the parent can promote learning by staining the teeth with disclosing solution and showing where the improvement is needed. The child should also be praised for his or her efforts when plaque has been successfully removed. Children in this age group generally demonstrate the ability to spit and should use a fluoridated toothpaste each time they brush.
Plaque control in the preadolescent:-
During pre adolescence, the child will gradually assume more responsibility for his or her own hygiene. In this age group they can do effective brushing and flossing. The children in this age group require instruction on proper brushing and floss techniques.
Plaque control in the adolescent
The adolescent has generally attained the strength needed to properly brush and floss without direct help from an adult. Although children in this age group probably have the ability to adequately perform thorough oral hygiene procedures, they may lack the motivation to do so on a routine basis.
There are many definitions of mental retardation. The most commonly used by all the professionals is the one given by American Association of Mental Retardation. Mental retardation or mental handicap refers to a conditio9n that slows down mental and physical growth. A mentally retarded child is slow or lacking in the development of mental function, when compared to those children of his age level. Therefore, a ten year old mentally retarded child may exhibit behavior like that of a three or four year old child depending on his/her level of retardation.
The number of new special schools for the children with mental retardation is increasing with concern for proper transits, planning and preschool programs. Mental retardation is not an illness. It is a state of arrested development of intelligence, originating in the development period and is associated with diminished adaptive behavior.
Mental retardation can be caused by many factors: accordingly before birth, at birth or child’s early years.
Prenatal causes exert their effects before birth. Examples include genetic and heredity, toxins taken by the pregnant mother, disease, and neural tube defects. Genetics and heredity include conditions such as fragile X syndrome and Down syndrome, as well as phenylketonuria (PKU). Prenatal toxins include alcohol, tobacco, and drug exposure resulting from the behavior of the mother during pregnancy. Diseases and infection, such as HIV/AIDS, can devastate an unborn baby. Neural tube disorders, such as anencephaly (where most of the child’s brain is missing at birth) and spina bifida (incomplete closure of the spinal column), are also prenatal causes of mental retardation.
Perinatal causes occur during the birthing process. They include birth injuries due to oxygen deprivation (anoxia or asphyxia), umbilical cord accidents, obstetrical trauma, and head trauma. They also include low birth weight.
Postnatal causes occur after birth. The environment is a major factor in many of these situations. Child abuse and neglect, environmental toxins, and accidents are examples of postnatal causes. An additional reason for being identified as having mental retardation is societal biases, particularly toward diverse students.
Creating awareness of the importance of oral hygiene is a step to be undertaken, to ensure lower incidence of dental problems in the mentally handicapped. This can be achieved by bringing the prevention of dental disorders to the forefront. Primary prevention is a prophylactic measure to prevent the onset of the illness, while secondary prevention is to prevent the symptoms of illness at its earliest. The former can be achieved by giving training for proper cleaning of teeth; the latter enhances the resistance of the body to prevent co-morbid conditions affecting ear, nose, throat and sinus. It is to be noted that gingival disorders are found to be more common in mentally handicapped with problems like the Downs syndrome. The bigger size of the tongue prevents full closure of the mouth, thereby encouraging mouth breathing resulting in dry gums and increasing chances of infection. Poor vascularity, plaque and calculus enhance permanent damage.
Thus the saying, “prevention is better than cure” is an idea, which needs to be emphasized to the parents so that there is an organized effort on their part to give attention to proper oral hygiene. In case of children, the parents can star by helping them hold the toothbrush and clean their teeth. Subsequently, allow the child to clean the front teeth without support and then help clean the back teeth and the sides. Finally, watch whether the child properly does so; if the child does well, some incentives can be given to make the routine dental care a habit
Patient management in the case of the mentally handicapped might cause problems because of the lack of co-operation and ineffective communication. There are certain requirements, which cannot be overlooked. It is to be understood that those children lacking logical thinking can be non-co-operative and may require special treatment chairs with belts etc, to restrain them. In extreme cases of non-acceptance, partial sedation may also be required.
Therefore, special facilities and dental care within familiar surroundings like school premises could help soothe their apprehensions, which, in turn, help in giving treatment effectively. Based on the facts mentioned above, the IDA believes that a permanent setup for free check-up and treatment for these unfortunate children by dental surgeons at a school or an institution is a matter that requires urgent attention.
Normal lip structure and function is important for speaking, eating and maintaining the balanced occlusion. The lip habit may involve either of the lips, higher chances towards the lower lip. It is a habit that involves manipulation of lips and perioral structures. Prolonged thumb sucking, lip licking, lip biting, cheek chewing, mouth breathing affect both the oral and perioral tissues. Lip sucking in childhood is not rare, but probably under diagnosed
Lip habit is not self- correcting and may become more deleterious with age because of the muscular force interacting child’s growth. Treatment of lip sucking habit should be directed initially towards the cause followed by appliance therapy like lip protector, oral screen and lip bumper. If the child is older, explain the esthetic importance to discontinue the habit. In some cases, psychological support may be needed depending upon the severity of the problem.
Brushing teeth is something most of the people do every day. It’s an essential part of the morning routine that we must complete adequately. This easy task deserves more attention than we usually give it to be fully favorable. An extra care while brushing and thinking about it seriously will give healthier teeth, and save the cost and pain of a procedure at the dentist’s office. Brushing teeth is a simple process. It doesn’t take much of your time or materials. Things needed for a perfect brush is a sink, a cup, and a toothbrush and toothpaste, which can easily be purchased from any store. When buying toothpaste, find the one that is right for you. There are many options: whitening, tartar control, cavity protection, and many more. The steps for brushing teeth are as follows:
Brushing should be done twice in a day for healthier teeth. Cavities in the teeth are mainly caused when bacteria eat the food particles and sugars and on the teeth, along with the enamel. Therefore, brushing teeth before bed is especially important since the bacteria and germs could potentially remain on the teeth for a longer time.
Whenever a dentist asks, “how do you brush your teeth,” we reply that it is just a simple task, not involving any technique. Brushing is also advised for children who don’t have teeth yet. Parents can clean their gums with just water. This process has to be done gently without causing any bleeding in their mouth. Parents can keep their child from getting gum problems and tooth decay by starting their dental care early. The above-mentioned steps for brushing apply for children also.
Children have to be encouraged for brushing. Photographs of children brushing teeth can be shown to educate them of the procedure. The only care to be taken is that very less amount of toothpaste is to be used and toothbrush with very soft bristles. Brushing should also be done slowly and gently without any trouble or irritation to the child.
Brushing is essential to prevent gum problems and tooth decay as well as to remove the growth of plaque on exposed surfaces of the teeth. No skills or training is required in the proper cleaning of teeth, only following of simple steps of brushing teeth will do. Brushing should occur after waking up, as well as at bedtime. Floss is also recommended after brushing, at least once to clean the plaque between teeth where a brush can’t reach. Visiting a dentist every six months for teeth cleaning is a harmless way to make sure that you have a healthy mouth. Brushing is a simple and quick task that must not be overlooked
Gingiva or gums surround the teeth and provide a seal around them. Healthy gingiva appears in coral pink color, but may contain melanin pigment. Gingiva is divided into free gingiva, attached gingiva and interdental papilla. Free gingiva is terminal edge of gingiva surrounding the teeth in collar like fashion. Attached gingiva is continuous with free gingiva and it is firm, resilient tightly bound to the underlying alveolar bone. Interdental papilla is in pyramidal shape and it occupies the interproximal space beneath the area of tooth contact.
Gingival overgrowth also called as gingival hyperplasia or gingival hypertrophy or hypertrophic gingivitis. Gingival overgrowth is the enlargement of attached gingiva due to increased number of cells. Gingival overgrowth can be initiated by factors such as mouth breathing, irritations along the neck of the tooth or hormonal changes such as those at puberty. The most prevalent types of gingival overgrowth in children based on the cause are
Certain drugs can cause gingival overgrowth. These drugs are
Gingival hyperplasia will occur due to increase in the connective tissue extracellular matrix. It is more prevalent in male children and adolescents. Drug induced gingival hyperplasia can cause functional difficulties, disfigurement and delayed permanent teeth eruption.
It is also called as Von recklinghausen disease. It is most common syndromic gingival enlargement in children. It is an autosomal dominant disease. It usually appears at the time of permanent teeth eruption. Histologically it contains highly collagenized connective tissue. It can
cause drifting of teeth, retention of primary teeth, Diastema and poor plaque control.
It is an autosomal dominant disease. It is seen more common in mentally handicapped individuals. Gingival overgrowth is caused by the formation of plexiform neurofibromas in the connective tissue of the gingiva. These plexiform neurofibromas consist of hypertrophic nerves arranged as lobules in the connective tissue. Occasional malignant transformation may occur
Gingival overgrowth is seen in syndromes that are
Dentist consultation is necessary for the treatment of gingival overgrowth. Mild gingival hyperplasia can be treated by professional scaling. Effective plaque control can reduce and prevent the gingival enlargement. Drug induced gingival enlargement can be treated by changing the drug or decreasing the dose of drug. Severe gingival enlargement can be treated by gingivectomy. It is a surgical procedure in which excess gingival tissue is removed. Mouth breathing, hormonal alterations should be treated. Gingival hyperplasia associated with syndrome needs both systemic and dental treatment. Daily twice brushing, regular flossing and regular dental visits provide good oral hygiene.
Baby bottle tooth decay also called as nursing bottle caries or early childhood caries. Tooth decay in infants and very young children is often referred to as baby bottle tooth decay. This dental problem develops in infants especially infants that are put to bed with a bottle containing a sweet liquid. Baby bottle tooth decay is commonly seen in upper front teeth, other teeth may also be affected. Baby teeth serve as place holders for the permanent teeth. Decay in the baby teeth can affect the child’s chewing, speaking and smiling. The breast milk or formula that comforts and nourishes your baby can also cause severe tooth decay.
Baby teeth are also called as primary teeth or deciduous teeth. Teething usually begins around 6 months of age. In majority of babies first tooth will erupt between 4 and 7 months. All the set of primary teeth will be seen by his/her third birthday. Don’t neglect the baby teeth because healthy baby teeth will lead to healthy permanent teeth. Decayed primary teeth can disturb the permanent teeth eruption which results in crooked or crowded permanent teeth.
Bottles containing milk, formula, juices, and sugar water continuously bathe an infant’s mouth with sugar. The bacteria such as streptococcus mutans, lactobacillus use sugar and produce acids. These acids destroy the enamel of baby teeth. Sugars, bacteria and time are the key factors for the cavity formation.
Chalky white spots appear on the tooth surface. This is the early sign of tooth decay. If you notice the white spots on the teeth immediately consult your dentist to stop the further progression of the decay. Severe decay appears in dark brown in color. If a tooth is decayed and left untreated pain and infection can occur. Baby bottle tooth decay can leads to pain, infection, crowded permanent teeth and pain while eating. Baby’s smile, chewing and speaking also affected by the baby bottle tooth decay
Your dentist will give you the best treatment plan because the type of treatment depends on severity of the decay and the age of child. White spots on the tooth surface can be treated by fluoride treatment or placing fluoride varnish can be used to remineralize the tooth. Severe decay can be treated by pulpectomy, restoration process or tooth extraction.
We all know that brain is most important organ in our body. It has many functions like reasoning, planning, orientation, recognition; perception of stimuli, problem solving and it is associated with movement, visual processing, speech, memory, emotions. It is responsible for basic vital life functions such as breathing, heartbeat, blood pressure.
Some foods will help for the growth of the brain. If you add these foods to your child’s diet, your kid become sharp, memory increases and he will do good job in his school. So take care about his/her diet.
Salmon is loaded with proteins and omega 3S. Eating salmon while pregnant and nursing can boost learning capacity and academic performance in children. Salmon contains high levels of omega 3 fatty acids which are important for brain and retina. Feeding salmon to preschool children improves academic performance. It is also an excellent source of vitamin D.
Salmon are very low in Mercury as they are small in size and eat plants. Eating salmon regularly has been shown to reduce the risk and incidence of depression, hostility i9n young adults and cognitive decline in the elderly
Eggs are good choice as a part6 of healthy and balanced diet. Eggs contain vitamin A, Folate, vitamin B5, B12 B2, phosphorus, selenium. Eggs also contain decent amounts of vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin B6, calcium and Zinc. Eggs are high in cholesterol.
Eggs contain choline which is an important nutrient that i8s used to build cell membranes and has a role in producing signaling molecules in the brain, along with various other functions. Eggs are less expensive and easy to prepare and. You can prepare simple dishes like cakes, muffins, omelet, egg curries. So add egg to your kid’s diet.
Peanut butter is a kid’s friendly and nutritious food. Most kids love peanut butter. The health benefits of peanut butter for children include good supply of protein for body development, good supply of essential fatty acids for brain development, supply of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Peanut butter contains omega 3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are ideal for brain development for your child. As your child grows he/she needs a regular supply of these fatty acids
Peanut butter is a good source of protein, B vitami9ns, iron, folic acid and fiber. Natural peanut butter that is not made with hydrogenated oil is a healthier choice. Kids also like to dip food, and peanut butter is a healthier option than dressings and some sauces.
A whole grain possess natural nutrition and a unique rich flavor. Naturally, whole grain provides so many benefits. Your children will gain several healthy benefits from starting to eat whole grains at an early age. Many whole grain products can capture a child’s attention and taste buds.
When you are looking for whole grains, read the labels carefully because food labels on bread, pastas, cereals can say wheat, multi grain and store ground but that doesn’t mean whole grain. Whole grains provide glucose, an energy source the brain needs. Whole grain also contains B vitamins which are good for the nervous system. Whole grain pasta and whole grain cereals are also available in the market. So add whole grains to your child’s diet
Protein and fiber rich oat meal helps keep heart and brain arteries clear. Healthy breakfast consumption is very important to children because critical and complex learni9ng skills are developed at a young age, and these skills are vital to further mental and physical development. High fiber and protein attributes are believed to be some of the primary factors that influence spatial memory performance in young children.
Boosts immune system by helping the immune cells seek out and repair areas or the body that may be fighting a bacterial infection. Oats promotes a slower and prolonged release of glucose into the blood system. Because of all these health benefits, it is the best breakfast for your kid
All berries are great sources of fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Blue berries are packed with antioxidants called anthocyanin, that may help keep memory sharp and raspberries contain ellagic acid, a compound with anticancer properties. Berries enhance your children’s brain power. Children need folic acid for healthy brain development. High levels of this vitamin B promote higher IQ, better memory function and enhance concentration. Berries are excellent source of vitamin C. Blue berries are one of the most potent antioxidant foods in the world.
Children like these fruits because these are juicy fruits and good in taste. These are given as finger foods for toddlers, snacks, fruity topping ice creams for kids. School children are exposed to many viruses and illness. You can boost up their immune system and help them to fight against infections by feeding berries.
Eating veggies in a variety of colors like red, dark green, yellow, purple, white, orange not only provides eye candy for your kids but mixing things up also gives them a broad range of nutrients. Vegetables with rich deep color are an excellent source of antioxidants to keep the brain cells healthy.
Vegetables provide complex carbohydrates, fiber and nutrients. Different colors indicate different nutrient profiles, so focus on giving a little of each color in your kids diet to maximize the nutritional benefits. Add tomatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrot, spinach, purple cauliflower, broccoli to your kid’s diet.
Nuts and seeds are packed with proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. These are essential for brain growth. Walnuts are good source of plant based omega 3 fats, natural phytosterols and antioxidants. Walnuts boost brain function and even promote brain healing. These are served as combined with olive oil and dark leafy greens make a healthy sauce for whole grain pasta
Milk and milk products are geed source of B vitamins, vitamin D, calcium, potassium. Yogurt can help keep brain cell membranes flexible, helping them to send and receive information. These are good in taste, affordable. These foods increase the immunity.
The Curcumin in turmeric powder can actually make the brain grow. Curcumin is an anti-inflammatory agent and strong antioxidant. Turmeric powder is usually added to Indian recipes.
There are plenty of benefits when you have milk with turmeric. Turmeric is a depression fighter as well. Ayurveda and Unani systems of medicines in India have used turmeric in health and wellness since for as long as records even exist.
Tongue thrust also called as reverse swallow or immature swallow. In recent years the tongue thrust problems and the resultant oral features have come to the forefront of the progressive, clinical orthodontist’s attention. If the tongue was observed thrusting between and the teeth did not close in centric occlusion during swallowing, it was specified that a tongue thrust was present.
The tongue protrudes through the upper front teeth during swallowing, speech and while the tongue is at rest. Tongue thrust is the habit of sealing the mouth for swallowing by thrusting the top of the tongue forward against the lips.
Tongue thrust is normal in infants until approximately the age of 6 months. The loss of this normal infant behavior is one of the signs that the baby is ready to begin eating baby food. During infantile swallow the tongue is placed between the gum pads. After 6 months of age, several maturation events occur that alter the functioning of the orofacial muscles.
With the arrival of incisors the tongue assumes a retracted posture if the transition of infantile to mature swallow does not take place with the eruption of teeth then it leads to tongue thrust swallow. In a thrusted swallow the tongue is pushed up and forward and in mature swallow the tongue is pushed up and back. As a child develops a more mature swallow the back and sides of their tongue begin growing stronger and gain more control of movement.
A child exhibits a tongue thrust pattern from birth, because it is an infantile swallowing pattern. It is acceptable to have this swallowing pattern up to the age of four years. Most children will outgrow the infantile pattern and develop the mature pattern of swallowing, not developing a problematic tongue thrust. If the child has not naturally outgrow the pattern by age four, the thrust is strengthened becomes an issue, and will require a training program to correct the thrusting pattern.
During a normal swallow, the mid tongue should be placed on the roof of the mouth, not between the teeth. Placing the tongue between the teeth pushes the teeth apart and out.
Tongue thrust can adversely affect the teeth and mouth. The affects are depends on intensity, duration, frequency and type of tongue thrust.
Type 1-non deforming
Type2-deforming anterior tongue thrust
Type3-deforming lateral tongue thrust
Type4-deforming anterior and lateral tongue thrust
Another classification
The most proven and effective technique to solve the tongue thrust problem is by oral habit training. This is an exercise that reeducates the muscles associated with swallowing by changing the swallowing pattern. This method must be taught by a trained speech therapist.
Thumb sucking is usually involves placing the thumb into the mouth and rhythmically repeating sucking contact for a prolonged duration.
At birth, a baby will reflexively suck any object placed in mouth; this is the sucking reflex responsible for breast feeding. from the very first time they engage in nutritive feeding, infants learn that the habit can not only provide valuable nourishment, but also a great deal of pleasure, comfort and warmth.as the child grows older, and is eventually weaned off the nutritional sucking, they can either develop alternative means for receiving those same feelings by beginning to suck their thumb or finger.
Thumb sucking is observed when the child is Tired, Screed, and Bored. There are times when child feels sick or sleepy or when trying to adjust at new places such as preschool and day care, Kids will get used to Thumb Sucking.
Various theories are given by different people to explain thumb sucking habit.
Psychoanalytical theory:
Proposed by S.FREUD.
When kids feel more of insecurity or some underlying disturbances they will addict for Thumb sucking. Even stress can cause the thumb sucking habit to kids.
If we try to break the habit without eliminating the underlying cause then the thumb sucking is substituted by some other antisocial activity.
Oral drive theory:
Proposed by SEARS & WISE
When kids are exposed more to Prolongation of nursing or Strengthens the oral drive Thumb Sucking appears. To satisfy the oral drive child starts with thumb sucking.
Learning theory:
Based on this theory the cause of thumb sucking is adaptive response.no psychological cause. This is acquired as the result of learning.
Root reflex theory:
Proposed by BENJAMEIN.
Root reflex irks the movement of the infants head and tongue towards an object touching his cheek.the object is usually the mother’s breast but may also be a finger or a pacifier. This reflex disappears in normal infants around 7-8 months of age.
Phase1:-normal & sub clinically significant seen in first 3 years of life
Phase2:-clinically significant.it indicates that the child is under great anxiety.
Phase3:-intractable sucking. Thumb sucking persisting beyond the 4th or 5th year od life.
Children’s who rest their thumbs passively in their mouths are less likely to have dental problems than children who suck aggressively.
Psychological:
The parents should be counseled to provide the child with adequate love and effection.the childs attention should be diverted to other things such as playing with toys.
Chemical approach:
Use of bitter tasting or foul smelling preparation placed on the thumb that is sucked can make the habit distasteful. ex:asafetida, quinine
Mechanical aids:
A dentist will give the mechanical aids to break the habit.
These are 2 types
Bandaging the thumb and elbow
Thumb guard:-it is a devise with plastic cover of the thumb that is attached to a child’s wrist. this guard interrupt the process by breaking the vacuum created by sucking, thus removing the child’s pleasure.