Thumb sucking a bad habit….
Preventive Dentistry
Thumb sucking is a natural hobby of children. Sucking on thumbs, fingers, pacifiers or other objects may make babies feel secure and happy and help them learn about their world. Young children may also suck to soothe themselves and help them fall asleep.
But After permanent teeth comes, sucking may cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth and alignment of the teeth. It can also cause changes in the roof of the mouth.
The intensity of the sucking is a factor that determines whether or not dental problems may result. If children rest their thumbs passively in their mouths, they are less likely to have difficulty than those who vigorously suck their thumbs. In some cases Children usually stop sucking between the ages of two and four years old, or by the time the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt. But if notice changes in teeth, or are concerned about child’s thumb sucking consult Dr.Nechupadam Dental, Marine Drive.
There are some ways to Stop Thumb sucking…
- Praise your child for not sucking.
- Children often suck their thumbs when feeling insecure or needing comfort. Focus on correcting the cause of the anxiety and provide comfort to your child.
- For an older child, involve him or her in choosing the method of stopping.
- Try to explain what could happen to their teeth if they do not stop sucking.
If these tips don’t work, bandaging the thumb or putting a sock on the hand at night will give a relief . Sometimes dentist or pediatrician may prescribe a bitter medication to coat in the thumb or in mouth appliance…..
