Thumb sucking is a normal habit for babies and toddlers. In fact, some ultrasounds reveal that babies will suck their thumbs in the womb! This self-soothing reflex helps your child feel safe, secure and comforted. So, why are we suggesting that you help your child stop sucking their thumb?
Why Should Thumb Sucking Be Stopped?
Most children stop on their own somewhere between 2 and 4 years of age. However, if the habit continues beyond the age of 4 or 5, it will begin to negatively affect their dental health. Prolonged thumb sucking can lead to:
- Problems with mouth growth
- Misalignment
- Changes to the roof of the mouth
- Speech problems
How To Break The Habit
The first step in breaking the habit is to understand why children do it in the first place. Thumb sucking is a natural self-soothing behavior that can provide comfort and security for children. Children may suck their thumbs when they’re tired, bored or anxious, as well as during other times of stress.
You can try positive reinforcement methods, such as praising the child when they don’t suck their thumb or rewarding them with stickers or other small treats when they resist the urge to suck their thumb. This positive reinforcement can help to build a child’s confidence and self-esteem, making it easier for them to break the habit.
If you are having trouble discouraging your child’s thumb sucking on your own, our team at James River Family Dentistry is happy to provide additional help. Dr. Guthrie may recommend the following methods if you are concerned about your child’s thumb sucking:
- Mavala Stop: A bitter-tasting polish that is painted on the fingernails
- T Guard: A plastic guard that is secured over the finger and cannot be removed by the child
- Thumbuster: A thin sleeve that goes over the thumb, reminding the child not to put it in their mouth. This can be removed, so the child needs to be compliant.
- NIPIT: A brace that keeps the child from comfortably putting the finger in their mouth.
- Medical Tape: Tape that wraps around the child’s thumb without being too tight. This can be removed, so the child needs to be compliant.
Breaking the thumb sucking habit takes time and patience, but with the right approach and support, children can learn to break the habit and develop healthy habits instead.