Originally featured in babyvibe.ca, October 7, 2008

Thumb sucking

by Dr. Darren Sam

Is it normal and when should my toddler stop?

Babies are born with the natural desire to suck. In fact, the act of swallowing and sucking begins as early as 13 to 16 weeks in utero development. A common concern for parents of toddlers is the consequence of prolonged thumb sucking.

It’s natural

Thumb sucking is perfectly natural and normal for babies and toddlers until the age of three. Most toddlers will stop thumb sucking on their own between the ages of two to four.

The down side

Problems may result if you toddler continues to thumb suck past the age of four. These issues include speech impediment, abnormal movement of the teeth which requires orthodontic treatment and potential social and emotional trauma:

-Prolonged thumb sucking can cause the upper front teeth to move forward and the lower front teeth to move inward making it difficult for the child to enunciate words properly.

-In most cases, abnormal movement of the teeth caused by thumb sucking is resolved if the habit is stopped prior to the eruption of the permanent teeth, usually around six years of age.

-Orthodontic treatment may be required if your toddler’s permanent teeth have been affected adversely from prolonged thumb sucking.

-Adults or peers may tease an older toddler or child that continues to thumb suck, resulting in possible social and emotional trauma.

The Do’s and Don’ts of treating thumb sucking

Remember, thumb sucking is natural and a common form of self-soothing for young babies and toddlers up to the age of three. Use the following tips a guideline for helping you wean your toddler from thumb sucking (if necessary):

DO – use a non-toxic, bitter tasting polish specifically designed for weaning children off thumb sucking. Apply the polish on your toddler’s thumbs in the morning or just before bedtime. Ask your family dentist or local pharmacist for information about this type of product.

DON’T – punish your child for thumb sucking

DO – try a reward system such as a sticker chart. For example you can place a sticker on a calendar for each thumb sucking free day. After a period of time, you can reward your toddler with praise or a special privilege.

DON’T – let siblings or adults tease your child for thumb sucking

DO – try to put a positive spin on the weaning process by using a combination of the two suggested techniques. Talk to your family dentist if you need more ideas.

Above all, remember that like any other habit, it takes time and effort to break your toddler from thumb sucking. Involve your family physician or pediatrician and dentist in the treatment of thumb sucking if necessary – they are there to help you succeed.