Thumb Sucking
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
What do I need to know about thumb sucking?
Thumb sucking is a way for your child to soothe himself or herself. Your child may be hungry, tired, unhappy, or bored. Stressful events, such as a new baby or a divorce, can cause your child to suck his or her thumb. Your child may have long-term problems if he or she continues to suck his or her thumb past the age of 4 years.
How can I help my child stop thumb sucking?
Ignore your child's thumb sucking if it is not causing other problems. Your child may stop on his or her own. Do not punish your child. This will make the problem worse. Reward your child when you see that he or she is not sucking his or her thumb.
How is thumb sucking treated?
Treatment works best if your child tells you he or she wants to stop. If your child is older than 4 years of age, he or she may need any of the following:
- Cover your child's thumb with mittens, socks, thumb guards, or splints to remind him or her not to suck. Long-sleeved night shirts may help keep your child from sucking his or her thumb while he or she sleeps. Your child's healthcare provider may also tell you to put a bitter liquid on your child's thumb. When your child tries to suck his or her thumb, he or she will taste the liquid and stop.
- A dental device is a brace that is fitted to the top of your child's mouth. The device will prevent him or her from sucking his or her thumb. It is also used to correct changes from thumb sucking, such as movement of teeth. The brace may be left in your child's mouth until he or she has stopped sucking his or her thumb for 3 months.
Where can I find more information?
- American Academy of Pediatrics
345 Park Boulevard
Itasca , IL 60143
Phone: 1- 800 - 433-9016
Web Address: http://www.aap.org
When should I call my child's doctor?
- Your child's thumb looks red and swollen.
- You hear changes in how your child talks.
- You notice your child needs to stick his or her tongue out to swallow.
- You see changes in how your child's teeth fit together.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's thumb sucking.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
