Non-nutritive habits are common during infancy and toddlerhood. Whether it’s a pacifier or thumb-sucking that helps your little one remain calm when feeling anxious or afraid, you may find it “cute” during this stage of life. However, if your child isn’t giving up this habit once they reach the age of four, it may be time to consider an intervention if you want to avoid potential problems with their oral development. Keep reading to learn what you can do to encourage alternative (and healthier) ways for your child to cope.
What Makes Thumb-Sucking a Problem for Oral Growth & Development?
If you are a parent of a toddler who sucks their thumb, you should not be overly concerned about their teeth, gums, and jaw at this time. However, if your little one is four or five years of age, or older, and they are still using their thumb as a coping mechanism, this can be a problem. Why?
- Continual thumb-sucking can cause bite misalignment (malocclusion) in the form of an overbite or open bite. The excessive suction causes the thumb to press against the back of the upper front teeth, causing them to protrude out over the bottom teeth.
- Gaps can form between teeth, making it difficult for your child to eat certain foods and chew thoroughly. They can also experience a speech impediment that might cause them to feel self-conscious.
- Your child’s orofacial structures may be hindered during development (i.e., the jaw, mouth and facial muscles, teeth, etc.). If their teeth begin to shift or their jaw is not in the proper position, it can alter their facial shape and formation, impacting their ability to eat and speak.
How to Successfully Stop Thumb-Sucking
Since curbing non-nutritive habits can be difficult, especially if your child doesn’t give up easily, you may wonder if stopping the problem will ever be possible. Fortunately, it can be with the right techniques and approach. You can:
- Give your child a healthier alternative when they become anxious or afraid. This can include a stuffed animal or blanket, doing an activity with them, or providing some kind of fidget toy that causes them to focus on the object instead of their thumb.
- Offer praise when they choose the alternative coping mechanism over thumb-sucking. This continual offer of encouragement will help them become more confident, knowing they are making you happy. You can also reward them with a sticker or another age-appropriate prize.
- Use positive reinforcement instead of punishment when helping your child give up their thumb-sucking habit. If it’s fear that initially caused them to begin the behavior, using a harsh voice or punishing them may only perpetuate the problem.
- Talk to your child about how thumb-sucking can negatively affect their oral health and physical appearance (if they are old enough to understand).
- If a hands-on approach is required, talk to your child’s dentist about a thumb-sucking guard or try using a glove to keep them from wanting to put their thumb in their mouth.
Thumb-sucking doesn’t have to negatively impact your child’s oral health. By taking proper steps today, you can ensure your little one’s smile for tomorrow.
About the Author
Dr. Michael Royse is a board-certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry who helps lead the team at Dentists at Orenco for Kids. Providing superior care and service to young patients, he works with parents to develop healthy habits while curbing those that can negatively impact growing smiles. If your child sucks their thumb and needs help to quit, visit our website or call (503) 640-6565 to speak to a member of our team about what you can do.