Thumb sucking (or finger sucking) can be considered a natural activity among children. Most children who suck their thumb at an early age probably did so while in their mother's womb. For young babies, sucking is a way to make contact with, and learn about, their surroundings; it is how they receive their nourishment. Thumb sucking is also comforting to children and provides a sense of security.

Children will usually stop sucking their thumb or finger during their post-toddler years (3-4yeras old). However, there are some who maintain this habit for many years. Constant sucking of the thumb or any other finger could possibly alter the development of the mouth, including the upper and lower jaws, or the positioning of the front teeth (especially if the habit persists while permanent teeth are erupting). Problems such as a narrow upper arch, a high palate, or crossbite, could occur due to the constricting of the upper arch (because the upper jaw starts to form around the thumb). The front teeth may also protrude and have an appearance of "bucked teeth." There are also other problems associated with thumb sucking: Children may have a higher risk or communicable childhood diseases as a result of placing a "dirty" thumb or finger into their mouth. In addition, a child's social development may be delayed; their peers oftentimes perceive children who suck their thumb as being a "baby." In this instance, it is difficult to be accepted by the group.

So, what do you do if your child does have this habit? Here are some helpful suggestions to help you address the situation:

DON'T STRESS!
Most children will grow out of this habit by the age of 4 (usually when they enter school for the first time).

HAVE YOUR CHILD SEE A PEDIATRIC DENTIST
Your child should always see a Pediatric Dentist. The Pediatric Dentist has been properly trained in monitoring the development of the jaws and the positioning of your child's teeth. They will know if, and when, habit-breaking appliance intervention is necessary.

GET INVOLVED IN A POSITIVE WAY
Support your child; praise them when they don't suck their thumb. Keep your child talking; it will make it hard for them to keep the thumb/finger in their mouth. Keep them busy with activities that require the use of their hands. Use a bright colored adhesive bandage on the thumb as a reminder to not suck. Consider a reward system such as using stickers and a calendar to record the days when the child didn't suck their thumb. If your child sucks at night, place gloves or socks on their hands and tape them snug. Another positive option would be to read them the book David Decides about Thumbsucking: A Story for Children, a Guide for Parents, by Susan M. Heitler

APPLIANCE THERAPY
If thumb sucking persists as the permanent teeth are entering the mouth or severe damage to the jaws has occurred, then habit-breaking appliances such as a Thumbguard could be fabricated by your child's Pediatric Dentist. This appliance is cemented into the mouth and usually remains for several months after the cessation of the habit.

AVOID PUNISHMENT
Most importantly, avoid severely reprimanding your child. Negative comments/consequences might have the opposite effect on breaking the habit as would positive reinforcement and encouragement.