Should I worry about thumb or finger sucking?
Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; most stop by the age of two. Prolonged (beyond age 5 or 6 years) thumb sucking can create crowded, crooked teeth or bite problems. Your dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb-sucking habit. If you have questions, please contact our office. Cuspids, Inc. 3796 Ashley Phosphate Rd. Charleston, SC 29418 Phone: (843) 767-3300 Cuspids@knology.
Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants: most stop by age two. If your child doesn’t, discourage it after age four. 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 baby’s teeth? A: The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your baby’s gums with a clean damp wash cloth. Use a tiny dab of fluoride toothpaste if your pediatric dentist advises fluoride protection. Later, brush your child’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste and small, soft-bristled toothbrush. Remember that most small children do not have the dexterity to brush their teeth effectively. Q: Any advice on teething? A: From six months to age three, your child may have sore gums when teeth erupt. Many babies like a clean teething ring, cool spoon or cold wet wash cloth. Some parents swear by a chilled teething ring: others simply rub the baby’s gums with a clean f
Thumb or finger sucking is normal for infants. Most children stop sucking their thumbs by age 2. If your child continues this behavior, it should be discouraged no later than the age of 4. It is important that this habit is deterred in a timely fashion before its effects become apparent. There are many techniques to help you and your child overcome this habit. It may be necessary for your pediatric dentist to intervene by making what is called a habit-breaking appliance. See your pediatric dentist for advice.
