Many babies and young children suck their thumbs or a pacifier. It probably started when they were very young. Thumb sucking is natural as it calms a baby and helps them to feel safe and secure, in the same way that suckling does. It can even help a small child to fall asleep.
However, if you visit a pediatric dentist Sydney you will quickly find that thumb sucking is not a good thing.
It is worth noting that children will generally stop sucking their thumb by the time they are 4 years old. This coincides with the time they get their adult teeth. This is a key milestone. Their adult teeth are permanent and need to be looked after for the rest of their life. At this stage, you’ll need them to stop sucking their thumb or a pacifier for their own sake.
Prior to permanent teeth, you can allow your child to suck their thumb or pacifier. However, the longer the suck it the harder it is to stop. In addition, if you notice issues with their baby teeth you’ll need to stop the thumb sucking immediately and seek specialist help.
Why Thumb Sucking Is Bad
You may be surprised by the amount of pressure that can be placed on the thumb when your child is sucking. This pressure is also transferred to the teeth and bones in the mouth. In effect, the sucking can pull the teeth forward, creating misaligned teeth. It can also affect the root structure of their teeth, potentially causing an array of issues when they are older.
Alongside this, thumb sucking is known to cause issues in the roof of the mouth which may need to be looked at further.
Stopping The Thumb Sucking
It’s unlikely that your child will simply stop sucking their thumb because you have asked them to. Even if you explain the reasons the thumb sucking will be a habit, which is hard to break.
You can help by asking them not to suck their thumb and, when they stop, praise them.
You should also talk to your child to ensure they are not suffering from any anxiety. In many cases, thumb sucking is a way of getting comfort when they are anxious. Finding out what is bothering them and helping resolve the issue can help them to stop sucking their thumb.
It is also possible to offer a reward if they stop sucking their thumb. You’ll have to carefully consider what reward is appropriate.
Another option that should work is to cover your child’s thumb in a sock or a bandage. This will remind them not to suck their thumb. But, if they insist on continuing you can simply talk to your pediatric dentist and get them to prescribe a bitter medication. You can coat your child’s thumb with this which will quickly stop them from doing it.
Remember, if your child is old enough it is best to involve them in your decision to stop thumb sucking. If they can help devise the strategy or solution they’ll find it easier to stick to the plan.
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