How to Stop Thumb Sucking and Other Bad Habits: Tips from a Pediatric Dentist

In our pediatric dentist office, we treat children of all ages and, over the years, have seen how children with bad habits can negatively influence their oral health along with the appearance of their smile. While parents try their best to replace these habits with positive ones, it can be difficult to do. Below are some of our suggestions that we have seen work over the years.

Thumb sucking

Babies and toddlers who suck their thumb generally do so as a way to help self-soothe. This is a positive thing because it makes it possible for a child to calm themselves down at times when they are feeling lonely or distressed. However, as they get well into their toddler years it is important that they stop sucking their thumb. Otherwise, a child will be setting themselves up for problems with their teeth like an overbite or open bite.

Additionally, bacteria and germs can be on the thumb itself increasing the likelihood of them becoming ill. To break this habit, try providing children with an alternative. For example, any time that a child wants to suck their thumb, they can reach for a dental lollipop instead. These are medically beneficial because they contain Xylitol, which can decrease the likelihood of them developing cavities.

Sometimes a reward like this teaches a child that there are benefits to stopping the behavior. This can produce better results than the common punishment method, which tends not to be as effective.

Taking a bottle or cup of milk or juice to bed

Sending children to bed with milk or juice is going to increase the likelihood of them developing tooth decay. Both contain sugar that if left on the teeth overnight will have the opportunity to turn into plaque which secretes acid and attacks the enamel on the teeth. Once the teeth have been brushed for the night it is best to drink water only.

To stop this habit, do not try to take away the bottle or cup completely. Instead, replace it with water that is lightly flavored with something that is sugar-free. Then, slowly reduce the flavoring until all they are drinking is water. The habit will remain the same but they will be drinking something that is good for their teeth instead.

Constant snacking

As a pediatric dentist, we find that a lot of our young patients are always snacking on something. Typically, these snacks consist of chips, fruit snacks, and candies. While these things are easy to throw into a purse or diaper bag, they are bad for the teeth and create unhealthy habits. The best option is to replace the unhealthy snacks with things that are healthy for the body and for the teeth.

Some suggestions are string cheese, yogurt that does not have sugar added to it, apple slices and baby carrots. These things along with various nuts can also be carried and thrown in a bag when walking out of the house. The difference is that they can help to remineralize and strengthen the teeth, rather than harm them.

Call us for more tips

To get help improving your child's oral health, call our pediatric dentist office.

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