Thumb Sucking & Pacifier Use

Babies crave comfort. They often find comfort in blankets, stuffed animals, and sucking on thumbs, fingers or pacifiers. Babies are even seen in the womb sucking on their thumbs or fingers. Typically children give these habits up between 2 and 4.

Dental Problems

Frequent or intense sucking habits over a long period of time can affect the way the child’s teeth bite together, as well as the growth of the jaws and bones that support the teeth. To aid your child in quitting a sucking habit be positive and supportive (never punish), give the child a sock, glove, or band-aid to cover the finger or thumb to help discourage sucking.

Prevention

If you notice that sucking occurs during certain times of day or situations, try distracting your child and get their hands busy doing something else. A rewards chart can be helpful. Chart days where the child doesn’t suck his thumb, finger or pacifier with a sticker. Decide on rewards that can be earned after a week and after a month. If your child has a pacifier, try getting them to give the pacifier to the “pacifier fairy” who needs them for the new babies. Don’t hesitate to explain to your child what can happen to their mouth and teeth if they continue sucking.

Contact us today to set up your consultation. We can discuss your goals and options for pediatric dentistry treatment. Plus, we’ll talk about affordable financing and dental insurance options to make sure your child gets the dental care they need.

Call for an appointment: (972) 964-3774