Camp Little Tooth

Thumb and Finger Habit

While watching babies suck their thumbs can be absolutely adorable, thumb sucking can cause some dental problems in the future! As long as your child stops sucking his or her thumb by the time their baby teeth start falling out, there shouldn’t be a problem. However, if the habit lasts beyond this stage, you may need to address it.

Problems Caused By Thumb or Finger-Sucking

Thumb or finger sucking can cause functional and aesthetic problems for your child’s mouth. Some of these problems include:

  • Mouth Breathing: It can lead to chronic mouth breathing, which can dry out the mouth, cause bad breath, and impair nasal breathing.
  • Tongue Posture: Prolonged digit sucking can lower the tongue, affecting jaw development and narrowing the palate, which can restrict airflow.
  • Sleep Apnea: Misaligned teeth and a narrow palate may increase the risk of obstructive sleep apnea, causing breathing pauses and disrupted sleep.
  • Jaw Misalignment: It can cause an overbite or underbite, which may worsen airflow and breathing, especially at night.

Breaking the thumb or finger sucking habit early can help prevent these airway issues.

Tips for Managing the Habit

  • Positive Reinforcement: Praise small milestones and reward progress with stickers or extra playtime.

  • Identify Triggers: Recognize why they suck their thumb or finger sucking (boredom, stress) and introduce alternative coping methods.

  • Gradual Reduction: Reduce thumb or finger sucking gradually, starting with daytime, and avoid abrupt methods to prevent resistance.

  • Physical Barriers: Use bandages, gloves, or bitter-tasting solutions to discourage the habit.

  • Distraction: Redirect attention with toys, books, or comfort objects like a stress ball.

  • Comfort Objects: Replace thumb or finger sucking with a stuffed animal or blanket for emotional comfort.

  • Discuss the Future: Explain how thumb or finger sucking can affect their teeth and health to motivate older children.

  • Be Patient: Provide understanding and avoid punishment, as breaking the habit takes time and support.

If you’re still struggling to help your child with a thumb or finger sucking habit, our
Myofunctional Therapist at the Tongue Tie and Airway Center can help!
Call 303-656-2112 to schedule an appointment.