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Posts Tagged ‘tooth alignment’

Leeds dentists help children stop sucking their thumbs

Monday, November 9th, 2009

Thumb sucking in infants is a natural reflex action and can be very comforting for them. It is also a very common habit with recent studies estimating that between 75 and 95 per cent of infants suck their thumbs at some stage. This in itself is no cause for concern. This very comforting reflex is important for making children feel comfortable, many children suck their thumbs as they fall asleep, and nearly all children will stop sucking it on their own between the ages of two and four. It is simply a case in most instances of outgrowing the habit.

However, some children do not stop sucking their thumb naturally. If your child is still sucking their thumb when their permanent teeth start coming through it is probably time to break the habit.

There are different types of thumb suckers, with some gently sucking a resting thumb in the mouth. This type is far less of a concern than an aggressive thumb sucker. This aggressive sucking can cause problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth development. Extended sucking can affect the position of the teeth and the profile of the patient, if allowed to continue.

There are several techniques to get your child to stop sucking their thumb, but it is important to remember to try and turn this into a positive activity. By getting angry, all you may do is push your child to suck their thumbs for comfort. Take a note of when your child sucks their thumb most and try reward charts for not sucking. Make your child an active participant in the giving up process. A Leeds dentist will be able to recommend further tips for helping your child to give up. It may take time but it is very important for your child’s future dental health and orthodontic appearance that they give up before it is too late.