Thumb- and finger-sucking are habits that occurs in infancy. Children usually give up thumb-sucking by the age of four. If the child continues past the age when their permanent teeth start to erupt, they may develop crooked teeth and a malformed roof of their mouth. This results from the frequency, duration, intensity and position of the thumb in the child’s mouth. This can also affect the position of the upper and lower jaw and can affect speech.

Breaking the Habit:

• Wait till the time is right. (low stress)

• Motivate your child (show examples of what could happen to their teeth, and fingers/thumbs.)

• At CHILDREN'S DENTISTRY AND ORTHODONTICS, our doctors and team can fabricate a "habit appliance" for your child (usually for children 3 years of age and up). This appliance has been very successful in helping many children break the habit. The appliance typically remains cemented into place for approximately six months.

• Use a reward system. (Small incentives will encourage your child to stick with it!)

• David Decides About Thumbsucking: A Story for Children, a Guide for Parents. is an excellent book for children with this habit.