Thumb Sucking
While thumb sucking has long been a topic of controversy, many studies show
that a majority of children will go through a thumb sucking phase at some
point during their childhood. Thumb sucking is a natural reflex caused by
an innate sucking instinct that is normal in babies, infants, and young children.
It makes children feel calm and content, while also providing a sense of
security. Thumb sucking most often induces sleep, as it is very relaxing
for a child.
In order to prevent serious dental problems relating to tooth alignment and
proper mouth growth, thumb sucking should be stopped before your child's
permanent front teeth are ready to come in. Most children cease from sucking
their thumb between the ages of two and four. Another factor that can influence
future dental problems is how intensely your child sucks on his or her fingers
or thumbs. Children who suck their thumbs gently or simply place them passively
in their mouths are far less likely to experience problems than those who
vigorously suck their thumbs.
Pacifiers should not be considered an alternative for thumb sucking. Like
thumb sucking, pacifiers can cause the same dental problems and greatly affect
the growth of your child's teeth. The use of the pacifier can, however,
be controlled more effortlessly than a thumb sucking habit, as a parent can
simply remove the pacifier from their child's mouth. If you have concerns
or further questions about thumb sucking or pacifiers, contact your child's
dentist.
Suggestions
Our professionals at Bennett Family Dentistry offer these suggestions to
help your child ease off of thumb sucking:
- Children often suck their thumbs due to anxiety. Center on correcting
the cause of stress, instead of the thumb sucking.
- Since many children suck to feel comfort, attempt to provide them with
more comfort and security so that they will feel less of an urge to suck
their thumb.
- Reward your children when they abstain from thumb sucking, especially
during difficult periods, such as a nightmare.
- Have your child's dentist talk to them. They can give confidence
to children to stop sucking, as well as enlighten them on what could happen
if they continue.
- Lastly, you can try to break your child's habit by putting something
on their hand at night, such as a sock.
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