Thumb Sucking
June 18, 2008
Thumb-sucking or finger-sucking is a habit that occurs with many infants. Does your baby or child suck their thumb? Some children suck their thumbs while others do not. Why? What are the consequences of thumb sucking, health wise? How can you help your child stop sucking their thumb? Your child will usually give it up naturally by the age of four. If the sucking habit continues beyond the time when permanent teeth start to erupt, your child may develop crooked teeth and a malformed palate (roof of the mouth). This results from pressure applied by the thumb on the teeth and roof of the mouth.
As you have observed with your daughter, the most common time for sucking is when children are tired, bored, or in need comfort. Often these children fall asleep more easily, are able to put themselves back to sleep at night more easily, and sleep through the night much earlier than their peers who do not suck their thumbs. The severity of the problem depends on frequency, intensity, duration and also the position in which the thumb is placed in the mouth. The relationship between the upper and lower jaws may also be affected. Speech defects can occur from misaligned teeth resulting from thumb sucking and/or finger-sucking.
When your child is first trying to stop sucking their thumb keep their life on an even keel. Maintain a predictable routine in your home. Make sure the child is well fed and rested. Have them stay home from school and make it a three day weekend to work on the habit. Painting something that tastes yucky on the thumbs can make sucking them less satisfying. Commercial products are available for this purpose. Give your child attention and understanding and gently discourage the habit. Reminders such as a band-aid on the thumb can help. Offer rewards (star on chart, dimes, extra story) for days when your child is successful. Praise your child when successful.
Other parents have had success with pickle juice or a drop of vinegar. You might have to switch flavors periodically because people can develop a taste for almost anything. Eliminate the blankie, or whatever they have that is associated with the thumb sucking. The first few days is the most difficult and emotional. The child may experience withdrawal symptoms. Timing of treatment is important. Your child should be willing to give up thumb sucking or finger-sucking. If your child is not willing to stop, therapy is not usually indicated. Pressure you apply to stop may only lead to resistance and lack of cooperation. Try again later.
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