How to stop a thumb sucking habit?

Even though seeing a child suck their thumb may look innocent and even sweet, the harmful effects of a thumb sucking habit can be very serious if the habit goes on too long.

What is thumb sucking?

Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for children; sucking on thumbs or fingers may make babies feel secure and happy. Young children may also suck to soothe themselves and help them fall asleep. Many children stop thumb sucking on their own, but some find it difficult and some even continue into adulthood.

A persistent thumb sucking habit that continues past the age of five or so can lead to significant tooth misalignment and/or jaw deformation. Once a child’s permanent teeth come in, sucking may cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth and alignment of the teeth. Some children who suck their thumb vigorously may even develop problems with their baby teeth as well as their permanent teeth.

The longer the thumb-sucking continues, the more difficult any problems maybe to correct and often teeth remain poorly aligned for life, and it can be more difficult to correct teeth misalignment caused by thumb sucking.

The degree of seriousness depends on several factors, including how forceful the habit is and how long the behavior continues.

There may be a reason why your child is thumb sucking, try to investigate the cause. Some children find it a source of comfort when they are facing a problem or the unknown. Invest some time to understand why they might be thumb sucking. Offer them help and find a solution that works for you both.

If your child has a thumb sucking habit, below are a few tips that can help your child break the habit before any serious damage can be done to their teeth and bite.

Tips to stop a thumb sucking habit

– Take the time to explain to your child that their habit can cause problems with their mouth or teeth. Because many kids suck their thumbs at nap or bedtime, be present when your child is going to bed so you can gently remind them not to suck their thumb. Tell your child that breaking the habit will help ensure their teeth come in nice and straight, for an attractive smile they can be proud of.

– Another good idea is to use a calendar as a reward chart and let your child apply a sticker every day when he/she doesn’t suck their thumb. If your child makes it through a week without sucking, allow him or her to choose a small reward like a trip to a favorite park or a special treat.

– There are special thumb sucking guards available to try which can help. This type of device is a plastic cylinder that fits over the thumb that’s attached to a wristband, to make the thumb too large to fit comfortably in the mouth. If you decide to use a guard, be positive when introducing it to your child. Tell your child that the guard is not a punishment, but rather a way to help him or her remember to avoid sucking.

If you don’t have any luck helping your child break their thumb sucking habit, visit an orthodontist.