By Nora Heston Tarte
Babies are born with the natural urge to suck. They may suck their thumbs, fingers, fists, or other items like pacifiers and blankets. Around six months of age this urge tends to decrease, but many children continue to suck their thumbs as a way of achieving comfort when they are hungry, tired, afraid, or bored.
According to Rafat S. Razi, a pediatric dentist who practices in Tracy, this behavior in young children (less than four years of age) should not be cause for concern. “Sucking thumb is a normal behavior for babies and young children, therefore early intervention with mouth appliances is usually not recommended,” she explains.
Problems related to thumb sucking don’t generally occur until a child is four to six years old. If intense sucking (often characterized by a callus on the thumb) is still a frequent habit at this age, it puts them at risk for speech or dental problems. When a child sucks their thumb, the teeth can become progressively misaligned. The position the thumb sits in the mouth can also push teeth forward. It should correct itself, at least partially, when the habit stops, but permanent damage that requires orthodontic treatment may occur when prolonged thumb sucking is at play.
In terms of speech, a child who sucks their thumb may push their tongue out too much when they talk, develop a lisp, or struggle to make “t” and “d” sounds, requiring speech therapy to correct. If your child starts displaying dental or speech complications, it’s time for intervention.
“Parents can encourage [children] to stop by a reward system for the time not engaged in the habit,” Dr. Razi suggests. Providing distractions, creating appropriate time periods for thumb sucking (maybe just before bed), or placing adhesive bandages or gloves on your child to deter the habit can all work. It is important, however, that parents not shame their child for the behavior as that can negatively affect self esteem and lead to other issues. Instead, use positive reinforcement, and reward your child when they don’t suck their thumb.
When children are older, explaining the risks may help deter them. “For older patients, there are children’s books to help them see the possible effects of sucking: open bite, vaulted palate, [and] protrusion of maxillary incisors,” Dr. Razi says. If the habit continues after the permanent six-year molars are in, a mouth appliance can be used.
In some cases, older children who suck their thumbs may be exhibiting signs of emotional distress or an underlying disorder. Stop and think if there are any stresses that could be affecting your child’s emotional state. If you suspect your child may be experiencing anxiety, check with your pediatrician.
Ask an Expert:
Rafat S. Razi
2160 W. Grant Line Rd. #130, Tracy
(209) 834-1307
RaziPediatricDentist.com
Salida Surgery Center
5712 Pirrone Rd., Salida
(209) 543-9299
SalidaSurgeryCenter.com