It can certainly be worrisome when your child has a thumb-sucking habit, and it’s often comforting for both you and your child to know that this habit is more common than you think. Even better, most of the time it will resolve on its own.
Unfortunately, there is a possibility the habit might be more challenging to break, but don’t lose hope! This article includes 5 proven solutions that will help your child break the habit.
Is Thumb-Sucking Normal?
It’s important to note that making your child feel embarrassed or ashamed will not lead you in the right direction. We recommend positive reinforcement and encouragement, as these will be more beneficial.
Thumb-sucking is common, and usually resolves between 2 and 4 years old. For a higher chance of success, I suggest waiting until your child is at least 4 years old before intervening.
As a parent, I’m sure you have lots of questions. Could it affect their teeth? What if nothing works?
These are all great questions, and I’m here to answer them and help find a solution!
Effects of Thumb-Sucking
The effects of thumb-sucking depend on the severity and frequency of the habit. For a child who passively puts his thumb in his mouth, the effects will be minimal. If a child is more vigorously sucking on his thumb for most of the day, the effects will be more obvious.
The latter can cause the front teeth to protrude and slope upward, creating an “open bite.” It can also cause the palate to constrict.
Continue reading to learn several ways to prevent these unwanted effects.
5 Proven Solutions
Most importantly, to prevent damage to teeth alignment, attempts should be made to break the habit before the permanent teeth erupt. This occurs around 6 years of age.
If you notice a change in your child’s tooth alignment, and they still have their front baby teeth, this will likely self-correct.
I hope this article is helpful for you, and I hope you find success in using one of the options listed below. Most importantly, don’t worry! Everything is going to be OK.
Option #1
A clear nail polish, specifically created to discourage thumb or finger sucking, is usually the first recommendation. Its bitter taste serves as a reminder to stop thumb-sucking, and can be effective.
Pediatric Dentists suggest Mavala Stop more frequently than any other brand. Parents can apply this treatment every couple of days until the habit has stopped. This product is recommended for children 3 and older.
Option #2
Next is the T-guard. The company offers two products: one for thumb-sucking, and one for finger-sucking. The appliances come in 3 sizes, and are fitted based on age and weight. These devices are locked, so they cannot be removed by the child. Their website states most patients see results after one week of use.
Option #3
If you’re looking for something less conspicuous, the NIPIT is for you. It is an elbow brace that works by stopping the hand from comfortably reaching the mouth. NIPIT is available to children ages 2-7. It comes with a Success Chart and Stickers to track progress. Your child can wear the appliance all day and night. A great feature is that it’s undetectable under long sleeves. In most cases, the child will break the habit within 5-21 days.
Option #4
There is another option if you want to try something inexpensive. If the habit only occurs during bedtime, socks could be a simple solution.
Placing socks on both hands will prevent your child from sucking their thumb. Many moms have had success sewing socks onto the ends of long sleeved pajamas, so they are not removable by the child.
If you’re not seeing progress after trying these solutions, don’t give up hope. Take a short break, and try again later. Consistency is key!
Option #5
If all other solutions fail, ask your child’s dentist about a custom thumb-sucking appliance. The dentist will take a mold of your child’s teeth and send it to a lab to fabricate the custom appliance. This appliance is not-removable, and remains in place for 6 months after the habit has subsided. Although its appearance is slightly intimidating, it is extremely effective. There are several designs available, and your child’s dentist can help decide which is best.
Did you find “5 Proven Solutions to Squash a Thumb-Sucking Habit” helpful? Share your success stories in the comments! 🙂
Link to product recommendations here.
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