Will braces work on a thumbsucker, even if I wore a retainer for the rest of my life?

Question

I've been sucking my thumb since a kid, I don't plan on or want to stop as it's a self soothing thing for me. I have a slight open bite and I am insecure about my teeth but I can't imagine stopping sucking my thumb. I have no problem wearing a retainer for the rest of my life. Would braces still be worth it in this case?

Curtis B. Bedont, DMD · Answer

I don't recommend orthodontic treatment until you are ready to stop the thumb habit because it will likely be a waste of money. Continuing the habit will undue all of the work with braces or Invisalign, and a retainer will not likely keep the teeth in a good position.

Will braces work on a thumbsucker, even if I wore a retainer for the rest of my life?

Answers (1)