Thumb Sucking Prevention
When babies are young, they need to find comfort and that’s with thumb sucking. Most infants end up sucking their thumbs which probably means there’s always one in each family that end up being a thumb sucker. But most parents shouldn’t have to worry, as long as it doesn’t affect their overall health.
What is normal thumb-sucking behavior?
Most babies that suck their thumbs for comfort. most of the children will grow out of it once they hit their older ages of two to four. But if they still sucking their thumbs in their older years, especially when his or her permanent teeth start to erupt, parents should act to break the habit. Because the habit may place pressure on the mouth or teeth, causing problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If you need help for your child to end the habit, you can contact our office and we’ll help find a solution.
What signs should I watch for?
Depending on how your child is sucking their thumb take notes. If their thumb is resting inside the mouth, it won’t cause much damage. However, if their sucking more aggressively, with pressure on the mouth or teeth, damage might occur with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If needed, orthodontic treatment might be needed within the future. If thumb sucking affects his/her oral health, please contact our office and we’ll help find a solution
How can I help my child quit thumb sucking?
There are many ways to guide your children in ways to stop and prevent them from thumb sucking. To help your child break their habits of thumb sucking, praise when your child doesn’t. Another way to break the habit, place a sock or a band aid over their thumb to help them remember to stop sucking. Parent’s can also set up a progress chart and put a sticker on the day that he or she doesn’t do the habit. Once made through the week and the whole month without sucking, offer them a reward to praise that they were able to break the habit! Making them want to break the habit will increase their willingness to break the habit. If you notice them anxiously sucking their thumb, talk through with them to calm their anxiety. Another way is to take notes and create distractions during these occurrences. Lastly, explain to them what might happen to their teeth if they continue to do so. All children need support and understanding to help them break the habit.
