Does Your Child Suck Their Thumb? We Can Help!

Do you ever wonder about your child’s thumbsucking? Do you ever wonder if there is anything you can do to help your little one stop sucking their thumbs? Similarly, do you ever wonder if you should try to stop your children from sucking their thumbs?

As you may already know, many children will start sucking their thumbs by the time they’re a year old. While some worry that thumbsucking is dangerous, would you be surprised to learn that sucking your thumb is generally considered harmless until your child is about four years old? You see, aside from being embarrassing, thumb sucking can actually have a negative impact on how their teeth come in after your child is four. Thumbsucking after four years of age can also affect the roof of your child’s mouth.

Fortunately, there are several options you can consider to help your child to stop sucking their thumbs–but please remember that these efforts will actually make some children more determined to suck their thumb. Still, if you’re interested in helping your child stop, you could try putting sour liquids on their thumbs. While this may be a deterrent, there are other options that you can consider. Our team may also be able to offer your specific advice.

Do you have more questions about thumbsucking, or about what you can do to help your child stop sucking their thumbs in Gilbert, Arizona? Are you simply interested in setting up an appointment with our dentist, Dr. Naman B. Patel? If so, please don’t hesitate to give Island Dental a call at 480-725-3031. We’re excited to receive your call.