Thumb Sucking: When A Habit Should Become A Concern?

Are you concerned about the thumb sucking habit of your baby? If yes, trust us, you are not alone. Experts say that sucking is one of the most normal reflexes in babies. It is a normal habit that makes them feel safe and secure. It also assists them in understanding the world around them.

Kids generally do thumb sucking when they are upset, bored, or tired. It induces sleep, is soothing, and calms down the baby when he is away from his parents. This sucking has nothing to do with nutrition and hence called as a non-nutritive sucking.

In the majority of the babies, the urge for thumb sucking reduces as they grow older. However, some babies might make it a permanent habit. And this is when you should consult the best pediatric dentist for your children.

When should thumb-sucking become a concern?

Habitual thumb sucking generally leads to cracked skin or callus formation on the sucked area. Prolonged habits can also hamper the upper jaw and teeth line up, increasing the gap between the front and lower teeth.

Although these changes are temporary, it can cause long-term effects if thumb sucking is continued beyond five years of age. It is when this habit should become a concern for the parents. The parents should help their babies in breaking this habit before they expect their permanent teeth. Here are some approaches recommended by experts.

• Discuss the issue seriously with the babies and explain to them the consequences of thumb sucking.
• Give rewards or praise them when they do not suck their thumbs. Some extra stickers or cookies will boost their confidence.
• Motivate them by saying words like you can do it.
• Give them gentle and polite reminders.
• Find some creative ways to engage their hands more often. You can also give him a big toy that needs to be held by both hands.
• Making babies wear mittens or placing a bandage on their thumb can also help in quitting this habit.

These were some effective methods that can help you baby quit thumb sucking. However, if they are unable to leave this habit even after that, pediatric intervention is a must. A doctor might have some helpful suggestions for you. Moreover, if you notice that your baby’s teeth are getting affected because of this habit, you should consider consulting the best dentist for your kid to understand the issue because any further delay can impact their speech, immunity, and respiratory system.