Kam SAY!
Thumb Sucking is
healthy and normal when children are infants. Most children stop somewhere
between the age of two and four. The effects of thumb sucking are usually
reversible up until the age of seven, because children still have their
deciduous (baby) teeth. If thumb sucking continues beyond the age of seven,
when the second teeth are coming through, permanent dental problems can occur.
Problems caused by
Thumb Sucking:
Excessive thumb
sucking may lead to buck teeth (the front teeth may be pushed out of alignment).
This can alter the shape of the face and lead to an open bite. It can also cause a child to have a lisp. Pre-school children who suck their thumbs can push their teeth out
of their normal position, which in turn, interferes with the correct formation
of certain speech sounds.
Helping children
stop thumb sucking:
There are various
things you can do to help your child stop thumb sucking. Focusing on the
positives and rewarding your child are very important. Depending on your
child's age and ability, you might like to try rewarding your child and offer
encouragement with a hug or praise to reinforce their decision to stop the
habit. It is also very important to limit nagging. If children feel they are being nagged
they will become defensive. Mark their progress
on a calendar by placing a star or a tick for each period (such as a day or
week) that the child does not suck their thumb. Provide a special outing or a
toy if the child gets through the period successfully. Encourage bonding, with a special toy. You may also give your child a mitten to wear as a
reminder not to suck their thumb or place unpleasant tasting nail paint (available from
chemists) on the thumb. Placing a Band-Aid over the thumb at bedtime is another
reminder. Offer
distractions while your child is watching TV and have toys available for your
child to play with to keep them distracted. Sit with the your child during this time and give a cuddle.
In the car, have toys available to keep them occupied.
For more information contact our dental specialist to help your child kick the habit.
www.drelizabethdimovski.com
BLOG by Kam - Assistant Office Manager
