Tips To Stop Thumb Sucking

Sucking is a natural action of babies as it makes them feel secure and happy. Sucking on thumbs, pacifiers and other objects also helps infants explore the world around them.

Young children also suck to soothe themselves. Since thumb sucking is relaxing, it may help induce sleep.

But sucking can interfere with the proper growth of the mouth and alignment of teeth. It can also cause changes in the roof of the mouth. The intensity of the sucking is a factor that determines whether or not dental problems may result.

Aggressive thumb sucking can cause problems with baby (primary) teeth and also result in the skin of the thumb to bleed.

Sucking on pacifiers can affect the teeth the same way as sucking on fingers and thumbs. However, it is often an easier habit to break. Sucking usually stops between the ages of two and four.

Some tips to stop thumb sucking:

• Children often suck their thumbs when feeling insecure or needing comfort. Focus on the cause of the anxiety and provide comfort to your child.
• For an older child, involve him or her in choosing the method of stopping.
• Explain to your child the benefits of stopping - the skin of the thumb will heal and the teeth will grow nicely.
• Praise him each time he sleeps without sucking his thumb.
• Bandage the thumb or put a sock over the hand at night.
• Your dentist or paediatrician can prescribe a bitter medication to coat the thumb.
• Try to use natural remedies to provide comfort and reduce anxiety for your child.

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