That’s honestly been my experience, too. I spent years worrying about what my dentist would say, but she’s way more chill than I expected about old habits like thumb-sucking. She always checks my bite, sure, but never makes a big deal out of things that are already in the past. Genetics really do play a huge part—my brother barely brushed as a kid and his teeth are straight as an arrow, while I was diligent and still ended up with braces twice. Sometimes I think we carry more guilt or stress than we need to... the pros have seen it all by now.
- I get what you mean about dentists being chill. Mine never freaked out about my thumb-sucking either, just checked my teeth and moved on.
- Genetics seem to be a huge factor. My sister sucked her thumb way longer than I did, but her teeth are perfect. I stopped early and still needed braces.
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— This hits home. I’ve worried way more than my dentist ever did.“Sometimes I think we carry more guilt or stress than we need to... the pros have seen it all by now.”
- I still catch myself wanting to suck my thumb when I’m stressed. Not sure it’s a big deal as an adult unless it’s messing with your teeth or jaw.
- If your dentist isn’t making a fuss, probably not worth stressing over. But if you’re noticing changes in your bite or jaw pain, maybe bring it up just in case.
- Honestly, I think most people have some weird comfort habits. Thumb-sucking just gets more attention.
