Do you have a child that still sucks their thumb or pacifier at your home? A sucking habit can produce changes in the Jaw Development. By stopping the habit at an early age, some self-correction may be possible. If the habit continues, additional changes in the jaw relationship, teeth, and facial appearance may occur. These changes could require some time of orthodontic treatment in the future. Sometimes, even surgical treatment will be needed in order to correct the damage.
It’s important to note that positive reinforcement is always beneficial when trying to get your child to stop sucking their thumb or pacifier. Try to catch your child not sucking their fingers, thumb, or pacifier and make a big deal out of their accomplishment. Positive reinforcement has a high success rate, and is totally FREE!
There’s a book available called David Decides by Susan M. Heiter, PHD. This story relates to a young boy as he finds out how to give up the habit of sucking his thumb. It includes a question and answer guide, as well as a very positive message for your kids. Check it out from your library, buy on Amazon, or at Barnes and Noble.
Finally it’s a good idea to make some new rules. For example, you could make a rule that your child can only suck his/her thumb while at home or in the bedroom. If your child is allowed to suck their fingers/pacifiers at any time, there may be no reason to stop. It’s important not to make these rules punitive, we just want to change one little habit, not the child’s personality.
If you have more concerns about your child’s thumb or pacifier habit please don’t hesitate to see Dr. Christianson at Brookhaven Children’s Dentistry. Call Brookhaven Children’s Dentistry in the heart of Brookhaven today at (404)719-4300, or stop by their website for more information.
