The shape of a child’s mouth and jaw can affect many aspects of their development. One developmental concern that parents should be aware of is a high palate. The problems a high palate can cause in children can affect breathing, speech, and even social and psychological development.
What Is a High Palate?
A high palate occurs when the roof of the mouth is higher than normal, arching upward excessively. This creates a space between the upper jaw and the roof of the mouth that is narrower than it should be for normal oral and facial development.
High Palate Causes
There are a variety of conditions and habits that can cause or contribute to the development of a high palate.
Genetics
Genetic conditions that affect bone and facial development, such as Treacher Collins, Marfan, or Crouzon syndrome, can cause a high palate. These syndromes are treatable if caught early but may result in permanent bone deformities.
Thumb Sucking or Prolonged Pacifier Use
Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use can also contribute to the development of a high palate. These habits exert pressure on the roof of the mouth, pushing it upwards over time and potentially leading to a high palate.
What are the Consequences of a High Palate?
A child diagnosed with a high palate should receive treatment as early as possible to avoid more aggressive treatments like surgery in adolescence and adulthood. The problems a high palate can cause in children include the following.
Breathing Problems
The narrow space at the roof of the mouth can restrict airflow, leading to difficulties in breathing, especially during sleep, which can result in conditions like sleep apnea.
Crossbite and Malocclusion
A high palate often leads to crossbite, a condition where the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, and malocclusion, which is characterized by misaligned teeth. Both can lead to chewing problems and jaw pain.
Speech Difficulties
The shape of the palate influences speech. A high palate can interfere with the proper movement of the tongue, leading to speech difficulties.
What are the Best Treatments for a High Palate?
Fortunately, if a high palate is diagnosed in early childhood, professionals can begin interventions that may prevent the problem from worsening and encourage a wider and flatter palate to develop as the child grows.
Palate Expanders
Palate expanders are devices worn inside the mouth that gradually widen the upper jaw, lowering the palate to a more normal position.
Jaw Surgery
In severe cases, jaw surgery may be necessary. This involves surgically altering the shape of the jaw to correct the high palate.
Prevention
Preventing the development of a high palate early in childhood can prevent the need for more invasive procedures later in life.
Breaking a Thumb Sucking Habit To Avoid High Palate Problems
Breaking a thumb-sucking habit in children can help prevent the development of a high palate. The most effective way to help a child overcome this habit is to use a device to stop thumb sucking that takes away the pleasurable sensation that thumb sucking provides. The child loses interest as the habit no longer provides the kind of comfort or calming effect it once did. They’ll turn to other comfort items or activities that can distract or redirect them in a soothing way.
While a high palate can cause several problems in children, there are also effective treatments available. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications. Always consult a dental professional if you suspect your child has a high palate.
Thumb Sucking and High Palate in Children FAQ
What causes a high palate?
Several factors can contribute to high palates in children, including:
- Genetics – Certain syndromes (like Marfan or Treacher Collins) affect bone development.
- Thumb-sucking or pacifier use – Prolonged habits can put pressure on the roof of the mouth, pushing it upward over time.
- Chronic mouth breathing – When children breath through their mouths habitually, the tongue sits low in the mouth causing the palate to grow higher.
- Allergies or enlarged tonsils/adenoids – These can block nasal passages, encouraging mouth breathing and leading to higher palate development.
- Prolonged bottle feeding and pacifier use – Extended bottle and pacifier use beyond infancy can contribute to oral development issues.
How does a high palate affect breathing?
When the roof of the mouth is pushed higher and narrower, the nasal cavity shrinks. This limits airflow, making nasal breathing harder and leading to mouth breathing, speech impediments, and sleep issues.
How does a high palate affect my child’s speech?
The tongue relies on proper placement and contact with the palate to form sounds. A high palate can interfere with speech development, leading to delays, articulation, or lisps.
What treatments are available for high palate?
Several treatments can reduce a high palate and the conditions it leads to, including:
- Palate expanders – devices that gradually widen the upper jaw and lower the palate.
- Jaw surgery – for severe cases that cannot be corrected with devices.
- Early dental intervention – catching the problem early often reduces the need for surgery later.
Can breaking thumb-sucking habits help prevent a high palate?
Yes. Since thumb-sucking puts pressure on the palate, stopping the habit early can prevent upward arching of the roof of the mouth. Tools like the TGuard AeroThumb gently dissuade children from sucking their thumb, reducing the risk of mouth breathing and high palate development.
