Why does my child suck their thumb?
Thumb-sucking or finger-sucking is a common self-soothing habit for many young children. Some children are more drawn to this habit than others. As children grow, most stop this habit on their own- either because they learn other strategies for self-soothing, because they’re more aware of hygiene and learn habits to stop the spread of germs and illness by keeping hands out of the mouth, or because of peer pressure to not suck their thumb at school.
When should thumb-sucking stop?
Digit-sucking habits can change the position of your child’s teeth and grown patterns of their jaws. Depending on how many hours per day and how many years a young child sucks his or her thumb, these changes may correct themselves or may need orthodontic intervention. Dr. Villaseñor will evaluate your child’s bite and alignment of teeth at their exam to let you know if thumb sucking is causing changes. The goal is for your child to decrease the frequency of thumb sucking throughout the day as your child develops other coping, and self-soothing strategies.
How to do it
It can be helpful to remind your child when you see them sucking their thumb because children often suck their thumbs without realizing it. Consider positive reinforcement with a sticker chart for days that your child does not suck his or her thumb. Once your child is ready to stop and only sucks their thumb absentmindedly, gentle reminders such as Mavala Stop nail polish or dental appliances can be helpful. Call our office today to schedule your exam so we can discuss how to support your child as they stop sucking their thumb and improve their oral health!