Should You Be Concerned About Thumb Sucking?

Some children suck on their thumbs and parents often wonder if it is harmful. Sucking on something is a child’s natural reflex. It can help them feel more secure so they start to suck on their thumbs, fingers, pacifiers, or other objects. Since thumb sucking is relaxing, it may also help them sleep.

However, after the permanent teeth come in, sucking can cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth and teeth alignment. It can also cause changes in the roof of the mouth. You can also buy thumb sucking guard in order to stop thumb sucking habit.

Children who suck their thumbs aggressive may even cause problems with their baby teeth.

If you notice changes in your child’s primary teeth, consult your dentist.

Usually children stop sucking their thumb between the ages of about two and four. They should stop sucking when the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt.

If your child continues to suck their thumbs, here are some tips:

– Praise them for not sucking, instead of scolding them when they

– If they suck because they feel insecure, focus on correcting the cause of anxiety

– For children, involve them in choosing a method of stopping

If necessary, your dentist can help by encouraging children and explain what could happen to their teeth if they do not stop sucking.