By Reno Laser Dentistry
January 05, 2012
Category: dentist reno

We all have seen the cute baby sucking on their fingers and say “how cute” which is normal for babies and young children. What if your child is six years old and still hasn’t given up, what do you do? Did you know children who continue to suck on their fingers/thumb may actually cause permanent dental problems?

According to the editors at Better Health Channel, “problems caused by thumb and finger sucking in excess may lead to:

  • Buck teeth – for example, the front teeth may be pushed out of alignment. This can alter the shape of the face and lead to an open bite.
  • A lisp – pre-school children who suck their fingers and thumbs can push their teeth out of their normal position. This interferes with the correct formation of certain speech sounds.
  • There are various things you can do to help your child stop thumb sucking. Focusing on the positives and rewarding your child are important. Depending on your child’s age and ability, you might like to try the following suggestions:
  1. Reward your child and offer encouragement – for example, with a hug or praise to reinforce their decision to stop the habit.
  2. Limit nagging – if children feel they are being nagged they will become defensive.
  3. Mark their progress on a calendar – for example, place a star or a tick for each period (such as a day or week) that the child does not suck their thumb or finger. Provide a special outing or a toy if the child gets through the period successfully.
  4. Encourage bonding – for example, with a special toy.
  5. Reminders – give your child a mitten to wear as a reminder not to suck, or place unpleasant tasting nail paint (available from chemists) on the fingers or thumb. Placing a Band-Aid over the thumb at bedtime is another reminder.
  6. Offer distractions – while your child is watching TV, have toys available for children to play with. Sit with the child during this time and give a cuddle to help them not to suck. In the car, have toys available to keep them occupied."

Most of all patience goes a long way for most children.

You can read the entire article at http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Dental_care_thumb_sucking?open

Remember help is out there, contact Dr. McElhinney’s dental practice located in Reno, your oral health specialist for any questions or to set up an appointment today.

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