It’s almost Happy Children’s Dental Health Month. Thumb-sucking is a very common habit for babies and younger children. However, when this habit goes on too long, it can cause problems for developing smiles. This February is the perfect time to start incorporating changes to give your child’s growing grin the best chance of success. Read on to learn more about why thumb sucking can be harmful and some steps you can take to gently encourage your child to break the habit.
Who Do Children Suck Their Thumbs?
It is actually perfectly normal and safe for young children to suck their thumbs. When they grow, it is natural for them to have the urge to feel objects and put them in their mouth. This is how they explore and understand the world around them. Many little ones resort to sucking on their thumb as a way to soothe themselves, just like how some children prefer to hold onto a blanket or stuffed animal. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), children will usually discontinue this behavior on their own when they are between the ages of 2 and 4 years old.
Why Is Thumb Sucking Harmful for Children’s Dental Health?
While it isn’t a problem when your child is a baby or young toddler, thumb-sucking is something that should be discouraged when they reach a certain age. This habit can lead to a variety of dental issues if it continues for too long. Ultimately, it is best if the habit is broken by the time your child turns 5 years old. At this point, it is beneficial to take steps to wean your child off this habit. If they continue to suck their thumb, they are more likely to develop a misaligned bite, palate issues, and/or speech issues.
How to Gently Discourage Thumb-Sucking
Thumb-sucking becomes habitual over time, and it can be difficult to give up a habit. Your child might not even notice that they are doing it. Here are some tips to use to gently discourage the habit.
- Introduce new comfort items, like a stuffed animal or toy.
- Avoid shaming or criticizing your child. This can be discouraging for them.
- Reward their good work with prices, like stickers or toys.
- To keep your child from sucking their thumb at night, cover their hands with gloves or socks.
- If your child is older, inform them about the negative impacts of this habit.
- Speak to your child’s dentist. They likely have some additional tips for children who struggle to give up thumb-sucking.
If your child has reached the age where it’s time to give up thumb-sucking, use this Children’s Dental health month to implement some changes. By putting a stop to this habit, you can help them develop a healthy, happy smile!
About the Author
Dr. Meghan Thorburn earned her dental doctorate from UT Houston. She has now been a dentist for nearly a decade and a pediatric dentist for more than five years! Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. For more information or to schedule an appointment for your child at her office in Fort Worth, visit her website or call (682) 327-1133.