Thumbsucking

Site Contents:

Thumbsucking:

Rules of

Thumb for Parents

from The Amer. Dental Assn. pamphlet "Thumbsucking"

Why do children suck their thumb?

It is very important for baby to obtain food soon after birth and so they have a powerful sucking reflex. Your baby soon learns that sucking provides warm, satisfying milk to satisfy his hunger. Later as your baby seeks comfort and security, it is not surprising that she turns to sticking on fingers or objects.

Can thumbsucking result in problems?

Yes it can. The critical age is usually 7-10 years when the permanent front teeth come in, Thumbsucking that continues into these ages can cause the permanent front teeth to be forced out of alignment. However, there are cases where "vigorous" thumb suckers can cause problems with the baby front teeth at younger ages. If you are concerned, check with your dentist.

Are pacifiers better for the teeth?

No, a pacifier can also cause harm the teeth. HOWEVER, it is usually much easier to break the pacifier habit - all you have to do is take it away!

When should thumbsucking stop?

Children should have ceased sucking by the time the permanent teeth are coining in. Usually, children stop between the ages of two and four years Sucking often gradually lessens during this period as children spend more of their waking hours exploring their surroundings. Peer pressure causes many school-aged children to stop.

How can I help my children break the habit?

Remember, excessive pressure can cause more harm than good. If your child is older, involve him or her with choosing the method of stopping.

Keep these tips in mind when helping your children:

	Instead of scolding children for sucking, praise them when they are not.
	Remember that children often suck their thumbs when feeling insecure. Focus on correcting the cause of anxiety. instead of the thumbsucking.
	Children who are sucking for comfort will feel less of a need when their parents provide comfort.
	Reward children when they don't suck (luring difficult periods, like when being separated from their parents.
	Your dentist can encourage children to stop sucking and explain what could happen to the teeth if they continue.
	If these approaches don’t work, remind the children of their habit by bandaging the thumb or putting a sock onto the hand at night. Your dentist or pediatrician may prescribe another medication to coat the thumb or use of a mouth appliance.