Thumb Sucking: When Should It Stop?
Thumb sucking is one of the most common habits in children. The habit starts early in life, with 90 percent of newborns showing some form of hand sucking by two hours of age.
Thumb sucking is normal in infants and young children and should cause no permanent problems if it’s not continued past age 5. Likewise, it’s generally harmless for infants to use pacifiers.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry says there is no reason to be concerned about thumb sucking until the permanent front teeth start erupting. At this point, some problems may occur, including bite problems or protruding front teeth. Other problems that may occur with thumb sucking are sore thumbs, infections, and calluses on the thumb. Most children stop thumb sucking on their own between ages 2 and 4.
It is thought that pacifier use may actually be better than thumb sucking for these reasons:
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Pacifiers are softer and cause less damage to the teeth.
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The plastic rim on the pacifier provides some relief of the tension placed on the teeth.
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Pacifiers can be cleaned.
Consult your child’s physician if you’re concerned with your child’s thumb sucking. Generally, it’s not a problem for children younger than age 5.
Online Medical Reviewer: Louise Jovino, DO
Date Last Reviewed: 4/6/2010
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