Many kids suck their thumbs as a form of self comfort. In some cases, this can help the child to sleep at night, providing parents with some much needed rest. Although thumb sucking is perfectly innocent for young children, it can lead to problems later on if the habit is not stopped.

The Issue
The main issue that a dentist for kids in Encinitas will tell you about occurs after the child’s adult teeth have already erupted. At this point, thumb sucking can start changing the growth patterns of the jaw, leading to misaligned teeth. These misaligned teeth can lead to speech impediments and, possibly, teasing from the child’s peers, making it worth the effort that it will take to end this habit.

How to Stop It
Once your child reaches school age, your dentist for kids in Encinitas might recommend that you stop your child from thumb sucking. Try providing distractions, such as new toys, for when you can’t be there to provide reminders. You can also reward your child whenever he doesn’t suck his thumb. The key is to not focus on it too much, as this keeps the thumb on the child’s mind.

The Dentist Can Help
If you are struggling to stop your child from sucking her thumb, speak with your dentist about the issue. Calling Carlsbad Children’s Dentistry at 760-633-1131 is a good first step, as they can give you tips on how to prevent this habit from doing damage to your child’s permanent teeth.