JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Kicking the habit can be really hard for children who suck their thumb. Most start within a few days of birth and some can continue for many years, which can lead to expensive orthodontics work later in their teenage years.
Dr. Ross Fishman is a pediatric dentist in Ponte Vedra Beach who says parents shouldn't start considering making changes until their child is between 3 or 4 years old.
"Some kids need the comfort (of sucking their thumb), maybe there's been a change in their life, like a new sibling in the family," said Fishman. "That's totally understandable."
He starts first by talking with his patients about reaching the point that they stop sucking their thumb.
"The goal is to have children stop by the time their permanent teeth come in at about 6-7 years old," he said.
Solutions:
There is a clear, non-toxic polish that can be painted on a child's finger. It's called Mavala Stop. It tastes pretty bad and is meant to be a reminder that when a child puts their thumb or fingers in their mouth, they should stop. It can be found online and costs about $10.
Another suggestion is the Thumb Buddy. It's a puppet that covers the thumb and comes with a book telling the story of a fireman and why it's important to stop sucking your thumb. Click here to learn more about the Thumb Buddy, which costs about $20.
There is also a teeth guard that can be placed behind a child's front teeth that makes it difficult to fit a thumb in a child's mouth.
Consequences of thumb sucking:
Sucking your thumb can change the shape of the roof of a child's mouth. It can also push the front teeth outwards. Prolonged thumb sucking generally requires orthodontics, like braces.
"Parents should not panic if their baby starts sucking his/her thumb. Most stop on their own between 2-4 years old. If not the earlier you break the habit the better," said Fishman.