Thumb-sucking is a very common childhood activity that make babies feel happy and secure. It is a natural reflex for kids – sucking fingers, thumbs, pacifiers and other objects. Young kids may also do this to relax themselves and help them fall asleep. Is thumb-sucking normal at his age? When should I be concerned about this thumb-sucking habit? Most experts agree that a child younger than 5 and still thumb-sucking should not be pressured to stop. But the problem is, thumb-sucking can lead to dental problems. With the permanent teeth coming in, a child thumb-sucking beyond the age of 5 may develop an abnormal bite, but beyond this problem, some kids develop speech problems such as trouble with the ‘S’ sound and other tongue-tip sounds. Prolonged thumb-sucking habit can cause minor problems such as calluses, chapped skin on the fingers and even fingernail infections. Fingernails may become shriveled up and the nails may not grow properly. During the winter, the skin on finger may become cracked and dry, which could make him even want to suck more. So, what can I do to stop this habit? If your child is sucking his thumb, don’t fret. There are ways you can do to help him stop that habit.
When your child successfully break the habit, make sure you praise and reward him. Take note that breaking any habit is difficult to do and such achievement is one that he should be proud of. |
AuthorMint Kids Dentistry Archives
July 2021
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