When it comes to a new baby, parents tend to have a lot of questions about what’s best. There are many cases for and against thumb sucking and using pacifiers with your child. Here are a few facts about thumb sucking and pacifiers to help address the main concerns.
Benefits of Thumb Sucking and Pacifiers
Thumb sucking is completely natural and provides comfort to your baby. As long as it doesn’t become a habit, chances are your baby will not do any damage to their teeth or jaw from occasionally sucking their thumbs.
Pacifiers are an alternative that provides the comfort your baby craves while stopping them from developing a thumb sucking habit. You can easily take a pacifier away if your baby’s use of it becomes a problem.
Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Dont’s
Once your child’s baby teeth come in, thumb sucking and pacifier use can start to do some damage. At this stage, you should avoid letting your child suck their thumb or pacifier habitually.
When to Wean
Children usually give up thumb sucking and pacifier use on their own sometime around their first birthday. If they do not, you should wean them off of the habit when their teeth start coming in.
Weaning Strategies for Thumb Suckers
Positive reinforcement is a great way to wean your child off the habit. Try putting gloves or band-aids on their fingers to remind them not to suck their thumbs. There are other treatment options available if home remedies don’t work – just talk to your child’s dentist or pediatrician for suggestions.
Still have questions? Bring your concerns to us – our team of experts here at Aqua Dental is always happy to help. Call us at (713) 609-1433 to make an appointment today!