Thumb-Sucking: How to Stop

Babies and toddlers suck their thumbs – it’s a natural and soothing action that humans have done since the dawn of time. Most kids eventually stop the habit without parent intervention, typically when they are between the ages of 2 and 4.

But some children continue sucking their thumbs for years beyond that age, and it’s a habit that can cause dental and orthodontic problems as they grow into their grade-school years.

Thumb-sucking becomes problematic after a child’s permanent teeth appear, and the habit can impact the palate and tooth alignment.

The American Association of Orthodontists  advises parents to take their children for an orthodontic screening when they reach about 7 years of age. Parents and guardians should consider taking children for earlier screening if their thumb-sucking habit causes problems with the child’s teeth and bite.

With offices in Destin and Panama City Beach, M. Scott Runnels Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics is ready to screen your children for potential orthodontic problems and can provide guidance on thumb-sucking and how to put an end to the habit.

There are methods to keep children from sucking their thumb – and avoid eventually harming their as they grow. Advice from the Mayo Clinic  in Minnesota can help parents work with their children to end their thumb-sucking habits.

Intervening on a thumb-sucking habit is especially important if the behavior continues past the age of 5. Some advice to help your child stop thumb-sucking includes:

• Sometimes, less reaction from parents is better than more. Many kids suck their thumbs to receive attention, get their way in a disagreement or get something they want. If parents give in to this behavior, their kids may quickly start to link thumb-sucking with receiving what they want.
• Use positive reinforcement when your child does not engage in thumb-sucking behavior. Reward them with a fun activity for the good behavior.
• Use a calendar to keep better track of your child’s behavior. Mark days when no thumb-sucking takes place.
• Kids who suck their thumbs often do so to relieve stress or if they feel out of sorts. Give them hugs, or sit them down for reassuring talks to ease their stress – and yours!
• Give children a stuffed toy, a pillow or some other comforting item to make them feel safe and secure.

Parents can also purchase mouth guards and other devices to prevent or cease thumb-sucking. Check with your orthodontist, dentist or doctor for possible options.

If you believe your child’s thumb-sucking habit is damaging his or her teeth, you are not alone. It’s a common problem that parents have been dealing with for ages. But don’t let the problem go unresolved for too long.

At Runnels Orthodontics, our professional and friendly staff provides a warm environment for you and your children, taking any fear and apprehension out of office visits.

Contact Runnels Orthodontics today to learn more about the best time to begin orthodontic care for your children so they can grow up with healthy and confident smiles.