Little humans suck their thumbs because it's comforting and calming.

Your LH probably practiced this habit while she was still in the womb and perfected it as an infant.

Now she turns to her thumb when she's tired, scared, bored, sick, hungry or trying to adjust to challenges such as starting daycare.

She may also use her thumb to help her fall asleep at bedtime and to lull herself back to sleep when she wakes up in the middle of the night.

Now, most Parents are worried about mal-alignment of their Lh’s teeth caused by thumb sucking, TRUE!

However, most children can safely suck their thumb – without damaging the alignment of their teeth or jaws – until their permanent teeth begin to appear. (Which usually start to erupt until around age 6.)

Keep in mind, too, that not all thumb-sucking is equally damaging;  it's the intensity of the sucking and the tongue's thrust that deforms teeth and makes braces necessary later. LHs who rest their thumbs passively in their mouths are less likely to have dental problems than children who suck aggressively.

Most LHs Stop thumb sucking on their own between the ages of 2 and 4. Some continue the habit longer, but peer pressure in school is often a very effective deterrent.

I know traditionally some mothers use ‘bitter leaf’, plaster, black sellotape etc but their are newer devices being sold solely for that!

Observe your LH’s technique. If she sucks vigorously, you may want to begin curbing her habit earlier, say around age 4. If you notice any changes in her mouth or teeth, or if you're unsure whether your child's thumb-sucking is causing problems, consult your dentist.

In love & health

Dr.Mims