If your child sucks his thumb, you should know that it’s a perfectly natural reflex. For many, this reflex helps the child to feel secure when going through a difficult period. You should also know, however, that thumb sucking can hinder tooth alignment and growth of the mouth when it continues after the child’s permanent teeth have arrived. If your child hasn’t stopped sucking his teeth by this age, speak with a kids dentist in Carlsbad about potential solutions.

Why They Stop
Most children stop sucking their thumbs between the ages of two and four because they no longer need it for comfort. Those who don’t stop by this age usually stop after they start school due to peer pressure. Therefore, thumb sucking usually ceases on its own and isn’t something that parents have to worry about long-term.

When it Doesn’t Stop
In situations where the child doesn’t stop on her own, the kids dentist in Carlsbad might make a few suggestions. First, parents should focus on the cause of anxiety that is causing the child to suck his thumb. You might also reward the child when he doesn’t suck his thumb when going through a difficult period. Finally, you might have to resort to using a mouthpiece at night, especially if your child sucks his thumb to fall asleep.

The Dentist
If you are struggling to stop your child from sucking his thumb, or have any other dental questions, don’t hesitate to call Carlsbad Children’s Dentistry at 760-633-1131. They can help you to get to the bottom of this problem so that your child’s adult teeth are as healthy as possible.