Should I worry about thumb and finger sucking?
Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; most stop by age 2. If your child does not, discourage it after age 4. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crowded, crooked teeth, or bite problems. Your pediatric dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb sucking habit. Q. When should I start cleaning my babys teeth? A: The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your childs gums with a soft infant toothbrush and water. Remember that most small children do not have the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively. Unless it is advised by your childs pediatric dentist, do not use fluoridated toothpaste until age 2-3. Q. Any advice on teething? A: From six months to age 3, your child may have sore gums when teeth erupt. Many children like a clean teething ring, cool spoon, or cold wet washcloth. Some parents swear by a chilled ring; others simply rub the babys gums with a clean finger.
Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; most stop by age 2. If your child does not, discourage it after age 4. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crowded, crooked teeth, or bite problems. Your pediatric dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb sucking habit. Q. When should I start cleaning my babys teeth? A: The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your childs gums with a soft infant toothbrush and water. Remember that most small children do not have the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively. Unless it is advised by your childs pediatric dentist, do not use fluoridated toothpaste until age 2-3. Q. Any advice on teething? A: From six months to age 3, your child may have sore gums when teeth erupt. Many children like a clean teething ring, cool spoon, or cold wet washcloth. Some parents swear by a chilled ring; others simply rub the babys gums with a clean finger.
