It’s very common for babies and young children to suck their thumbs. In fact, some even start sucking their thumbs and fingers while they are still in the womb. Although most kids stop on their own by the time they are four years old, your dentist may be concerned if the behavior continues after preschool. To help you prevent this habit from affecting your child’s teeth or mouth, here’s more information about thumb sucking.

The Link Between Thumb Sucking & Oral Care

Why Children Suck Their Thumbs

Thumb sucking is a common reflex for children when they need to soothe themselves, particularly when trying to fall sleep. As they get older, they use thumb sucking as a comforting mechanism when they are stressed or upset.

Because it helps babies feel happy and more secure, your dentist and pediatrician aren’t likely to be concerned about or discourage thumb sucking until the child is older. In fact, research suggests that babies who suck their thumbs may even be less susceptible to allergies later in life. 

The Effect of Thumb Sucking on Teeth

Although thumb sucking as an infant is usually harmless, when children do it throughout their toddler years, it can affect their teeth. This is especially true if the sucking is very frequent or vigorous. Sucking the thumb or fingers can lead to an overbite, problems with misalignment when the mouth is closed, and changes to the shape of the jaw. Excessive thumb sucking can also cause sensitivity inside the mouth. Done on dirty fingers, it can introduce germs and viruses. Most of these effects don't happen if the habit ends before the child’s permanent teeth develop.

How to Discourage the Habit

Most children stop sucking their thumbs on their own by the time they enter preschool. If it continues past that age, your dentist may recommend covering their digits with a specialized shield, gloves, or a bandage when they are most likely to suck their thumbs. They may also provide an orthodontic device to make thumb sucking more challenging. Rewarding your child with a snack or toy for not sucking their fingers is also effective.

If you are concerned about your child’s oral habits, turn to the dentists of Four Corners Dental Group. With locations in Wasilla and Anchorage, AK, they offer comprehensive dental care services for the whole family, including pediatric, preventative, and cosmetic dentistry. Learn more about their prevention services by visiting their website, or call (907) 258-3384 for the Anchorage office, or (907) 376-2790 for Wasilla.