Parents often observe their young children sucking their fingers or thumbs starting shortly after birth. Thumb sucking is normal in babies and young children, and it is generally harmless until age 5. However, in certain situations, parents should consult a pediatric dentist about helping them stop.
When To Call Your Child's Dentist About Thumb Sucking Before Age 5
If your child sucks their thumb too hard or too frequently, they may experience infections, calluses, or sore thumbs. If they suck too vigorously, they may also damage their baby teeth. In this case, call your pediatric dentist to ask for advice.
Issues Caused By Later Thumb Sucking
Pediatric dentists generally want to address this habit around age 5. If thumb sucking continues past this age, children may experience dental alignment issues, orthodontic problems like open bite and crossbite, and damage to the soft palate. They may be at a greater risk of impacted teeth.
What Pediatric Dentists Can Do About Problem Thumb Sucking
Pediatric dentists and orthodontists often prescribe habit appliances for young thumb suckers. A habit appliance is a dental device worn inside the mouth. It fits comfortably around the molars and behind the teeth, where it prevents the child from sucking. The appliance generally stops thumb-sucking immediately, but the dentist will leave it in place for several months to ensure a broken habit.
Tips to Help Your Older Child Stop Thumb Sucking
Find Common Triggers
Many children with anxiety suck their thumbs or fingers. Address anxiety issues by providing extra affection and reassurance. You can also try providing a stuffed animal or unique pillow to help with anxious feelings.
Positive Reinforcement
If your child meets attainable goals, offer rewards like extra outings to the library or park. Avoid using food or new toys as rewards.
Sibling Encouragement
Many young children who suck their thumbs respond positively to praise from an older sibling.
Avoid Scolding
If your child sucks their thumb, avoid scolding or criticizing. Gently remind them and provide a distraction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thumb Sucking
Is a pacifier better than thumb-sucking?
Many pediatric dentists believe that a pacifier causes fewer tooth alignment problems than thumb sucking. Pacifiers are not as hard as a child's thumb. The rim of a pacifier takes some of the pressure off the teeth. Finally, it is easier to give a child a clean pacifier than to wash their hands every time they begin to suck their thumb. Infants with a thumb-sucking habit may benefit from their parents introducing a pacifier instead.
Can thumb-sucking cause dental decay?
If thumb-sucking continues too long, it could potentially cause tooth decay and gum disease. If you have concerns, contact us.
Contact Tender Smiles 4 Kids
Thumb sucking is normal for young children, but if it goes past age five, your child may encounter orthodontic problems. Please contact us at one of our nearby Central Jersey offices with questions or to schedule an appointment for your child.