Thumb sucking and pacifier use are some of the most common habits in early childhood. Most children outgrow them without any lasting effect. But parents often wonder when to step in. This guide explains how these habits can affect your child's teeth and bite, when to be concerned, and how to help your child stop.
Why Do Children Suck Their Thumbs?
The American Dental Association (ADA) calls thumb sucking a natural reflex. Sucking on thumbs, fingers, pacifiers, or other objects can help babies feel secure and happy and learn about the world. According to Mayo Clinic, babies have natural rooting and sucking reflexes, and some even suck their thumbs before birth. The habit can calm a baby who is upset or going to sleep.
When Do Children Usually Stop?
The ADA says children usually stop sucking between ages two and four, or by the time the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt. Mayo Clinic notes that about 25% of children still suck their thumbs at age 2. A child who stopped may return to the habit when upset or worried.
How Can Thumb Sucking Affect Teeth?
Thumb sucking is usually not a worry until permanent teeth start to come in. Mayo Clinic explains that at that point it may affect how the teeth line up, and it may also affect the roof of the mouth, called the palate. The ADA adds that after permanent teeth come in, sucking may interfere with proper growth of the mouth and alignment of the teeth.
Two things shape the risk:
- How long and how often. Mayo Clinic says the risk of dental problems is higher when children suck their thumbs for a long time and very often. A child who sucks past age 5 is more likely to have changes to the teeth and palate.
- How hard the child sucks. The ADA notes that children who rest the thumb passively in the mouth are less likely to have problems than those who suck vigorously. Some aggressive suckers can develop problems with their baby teeth.
What About Pacifiers?
The ADA says pacifiers can affect the teeth in essentially the same ways as sucking fingers and thumbs. The difference is that a pacifier is often an easier habit to break, since you can control when it is available.
How to Help Your Child Stop
Mayo Clinic offers these suggestions:
- Do not push too hard before age 2. For children under 2, thumb sucking provides comfort and usually does not damage teeth.
- Talk with your child. You are more likely to succeed if your child wants to quit and helps pick the plan.
- Try ignoring it. If your child sucks to get attention, paying no attention may be enough.
- Use positive rewards. Praise your child for not sucking, and try small rewards like an extra bedtime story. Start with small goals, such as no thumb sucking for an hour before bed, and track success with stickers on a calendar.
- Find the trigger. If your child sucks when upset, offer a hug, calming words, or a stuffed animal to squeeze.
- Give gentle reminders. Avoid scolding or criticism.
If nothing works, try not to worry. Mayo Clinic says too much pressure may only delay the process. For some children, a chat with the dentist about why it is important to stop is more effective than a talk with a parent.
When to See a Dentist
Talk with your dentist if you notice changes in your child's baby teeth, if the habit continues as permanent teeth are coming in, or if you simply want extra help. At Boerne Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we ask parents to bring children in for an initial visit in line with American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry guidance. Early visits let us watch how your child's teeth and bite are developing. See our pediatric dentistry services, or learn about our practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is thumb sucking bad for my baby's teeth?
Not usually in babies and toddlers. Mayo Clinic says it typically does not damage teeth at those ages.
Is a pacifier better than a thumb?
The effects on teeth are essentially the same, says the ADA. A pacifier can be easier to stop.
Should I use a bitter polish or a special appliance?
Mayo Clinic says these are rarely suggested. Check with your dentist before using them.
Will my child need braces because of thumb sucking?
Not necessarily. A dentist can check your child's bite and tell you whether anything needs attention.
Schedule a Visit
If you have questions about your child's thumb sucking or pacifier habit, contact our Boerne team to schedule a visit.