05/30/2026
A new study found that children who continued thumb sucking or pacifier use for longer periods were significantly more likely to develop anterior open bite.
A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis published in BMC Oral Health analyzed data from 33 studies and found a clear association between prolonged non-nutritive sucking habits and anterior open bite—a condition in which the upper and lower front teeth do not properly meet when the mouth is closed.
Researchers also found that the longer these habits persisted, the greater the risk became. Daily pacifier use showed one of the strongest associations with open bite development.
Thumb sucking and pacifier use are common during early childhood and are often normal developmental behaviors. However, when these habits continue for extended periods, they may gradually influence the way the teeth and jaws develop.
Source: Wang Y, et al. Association between non-nutritive sucking habits and anterior open bite: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Oral Health. 2025.
