Thumb Sucking

In infants and babies, thumb sucking is a natural, instinctive reflex that soothes, entertains, and helps to induce sleep. Toddlers and young children suck their thumbs when they are feeling insecure or needing comfort. However, some aggressive thumb suckers may cause problems with their baby (primary) teeth which are a concern that should be brought to the attention a dentist. But as the permanent teeth erupt, thumb sucking can become even more problematic because it can change the proper growth of the mouth and alignment of the teeth. In severe cases, thumb sucking can change the formation of the roof of the mouth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the level of damage to a child’s mouth depends on the intensity of the sucking. If children rest their thumbs passively in their mouths, they are less likely to have difficulty than those who vigorously suck their thumbs.

Usually, children stop sucking their thumbs when they are between 2-4 years of age, and most stop on their own before kindergarten. Sometimes, however the thumb sucking persists as a bad habit. The ADA advises that children should certainly stop thumb sucking by the time the permanent teeth begin to erupt, usually by the age of six or seven years of age. If your child needs to be encouraged to stop sucking his/her thumb, try changing your child’s habit by offering praise and rewards for not sucking the thumb when he/she normally would. If your child is older, involve him or her in choosing the method of stopping, such as a printed bandage over the thumb as a reminder not to suck. Remember to comfort you child, and focus on correcting the cause of anxiety instead of the thumb sucking. If your efforts are unsuccessful, consult with your dentist.

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