Thumb sucking is a very natural habit in young children and usually fades by itself. But if it continues once the permanent teeth start coming in, it can affect the bite.
- Thumb sucking is a natural habit in young children and many drop it before about 3 to 4 years old.
- If it continues once the permanent teeth come in, it can push the front teeth forward, cause an open bite and affect speech.
- Parents should not scold; find the cause, praise the child and offer a replacement.
- A child over 4 to 5 who still sucks often, or whose front teeth already stick out, should be examined.
For a young child, sucking a thumb is a way to self-soothe and feel safe. Many children drop the habit on their own before about 3 to 4 years of age, so parents need not worry too much when the child is very small.
When does thumb sucking start to affect the teeth?
Problems usually appear when the child still sucks hard, for many hours a day, up to when the permanent teeth come in (about 5 to 6 years old). You may then see:
- Upper front teeth pushed forward.
- An open bite: when the teeth close, the upper and lower front teeth do not meet.
- A narrow palate and a changed shape of the dental arch.
- Unclear pronunciation of some sounds, or a tongue-thrusting habit.
How much effect there is depends on how hard the child sucks, for how many hours a day and over how many years.
How can parents help a child stop?
- Do not scold or punish, because the more stressed the child is, the more they may suck.
- Look for the reason: sleepiness, worry, boredom or a need for comfort.
- Praise the child when they do not suck, with small, easy goals.
- Offer a replacement such as a soft toy to cuddle or games that use both hands.
- Remind gently when you see the hand going to the mouth, and avoid nagging in front of others.
When should you take the child to a dentist?
- The child is over 4 to 5 years old and still sucks often.
- The front teeth are starting to stick out or the bite does not meet.
- The thumb is sore, chapped or misshapen.
The dentist will examine, assess the effect and advise parents on a suitable direction. See also when to take a child for a first dental visit and what to watch when children lose baby teeth.
You can bring your child in person during working hours at 266A - 268, Đường 3 Tháng 2, Phường Hòa Hưng, Ho Chi Minh City, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter hours.
Frequently asked questions
Up to what age is thumb sucking normal?
In young children it is normal, and many drop it on their own before about 3 to 4 years old. If it continues once the permanent teeth have come in, take the child for a check.
Can thumb sucking make teeth stick out?
It can, especially if the child sucks hard, for many hours a day, up to when the permanent teeth come in. The front teeth may stick out or the bite may be open.
Should I punish my child for sucking a thumb?
No. Scolding or punishing makes the child more stressed and may increase sucking. It is better to find the cause, praise the child when they do not suck and offer a replacement.