Thumb Sucking
Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for children. Sucking on thumbs, fingers, pacifiers or other objects may make babies feel secure and happy and help them learn about their world. Young children may also suck to soothe themselves and help them fall asleep.
Children usually stop sucking their thumb between the ages of two and four years old, or by the time the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt. After permanent teeth come in, sucking may cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth and alignment of the teeth. It can also cause changes in the roof of the mouth.
Pacifiers can affect the teeth essentially the same ways as sucking fingers and thumbs, but it is often an easier habit to break.
The intensity of sucking is a factor that determines whether or not dental problems may result. If children rest their thumbs passively in their mouths, they are less likely to have difficulty than those who vigorously suck their thumbs. Some aggressive thumb suckers may develop problems with their baby (primary) teeth.
If you want to encourage your child to stop thumb sucking, talk to them about it. You are more likely to be successful in stopping the habit if your child wants to stop and helps choose the method involved. If this is not effective, you might try another technique.
Use positive reinforcement. Praise your child or provide small rewards – such as an extra bedtime story or a trip to the park – when he or she isn’t thumb sucking. Place stickers on a calendar to record the days when your child successfully avoids thumb sucking.
Identify triggers. If your child sucks his or her thumb in response to stress, identify the real issue and provide comfort in other ways – such as a hug or reassuring words. You might also give your child a pillow or stuffed animal to squeeze.
Offer gentle reminders. If your child sucks his or her thumb without thought – rather than as a way to get your attention – gently remind him or her to stop. Don’t scold, criticize or ridicule your child. To spare embarrassment in front of others, you might alert your child to the thumb sucking with a special signal or private cue.
Talk to the dentist. Breaking a longstanding habit is difficult and some children may need additional help. Talk to your child’s dentist. They can help encourage your child to stop the habit, and if necessary, can suggest different strategies or oral appliances that may help.
http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/t/thumbsucking
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