Thumb Sucking in Children:

Like many parents, you may be concerned if your child sucks their thumb, and may be worried about the long-term effect and dental problems that thumb sucking can cause.

Why do children suck their thumbs?

Sucking is a natural reflex. Babies suck their thumbs or fingers because it helps them feel secure and happy, and young children often do it to soothe themselves or fall asleep. Many children stop on their own, but some find it hard to give up, and a few carry the habit into adulthood. Research shows that 1 in 8 children aged 7 to 11 still suck their thumbs or fingers, so you are not alone.

There may also be a particular reason why your child is sucking. Some children turn to it for comfort when they’re anxious, facing a problem or dealing with something new. Take time to understand what might be behind it, then work together to find a solution that suits you both.

Your dentist can help too. They can explain to your child how long-term thumb sucking affects their teeth, perhaps showing pictures of teeth that have been pushed out of line, and they can offer you support and advice.

How does sucking thumb affect children’s teeth?

Thumb sucking can affect how a child’s teeth and mouth develop, especially once their adult teeth come through. How much it matters depends on how long the habit lasts and how vigorous it is. A child who rests their thumb gently in their mouth is less likely to have problems than one who sucks hard, though vigorous sucking can sometimes affect baby teeth as well as adult teeth. The longer the habit continues, the harder any changes can be to correct. Dummies can affect teeth in a similar way, though many children find them easier to give up. If you’re worried, your dentist can check your child’s teeth and talk through the options.

Luke age 4 showing the difference 4 months after stopping

What Should I Do To Help My Child Stop thumb sucking?

Trying to stop a child thumb sucking can be a tough habit to break. Try to praise your child for not sucking rather than getting cross when they do. Try to use positive reinforcements.

How can Thumbsie® help?

A Thumbsie® fabric glove (also know as guard) can help prevent thumb and finger sucking as it is a gentle and effective way to help your child to give up sucking. Recommended for children aged 3-14 and available in thumb and finger gloves. They come in 5 different sizes. The Thumbsie® glove should be worn day and night until the habit is broken. Read what parents say in our reviews and success stories.

What do dentists think about Thumbsie®?

British dentists back Thumbsie® as an effective way to help children stop thumb and finger sucking. Left unchecked, the habit can cause lasting damage to teeth and affect the shape of the mouth, speech development and a child’s smile.

Dr. Kotecha of Glen Dental says “I love the Thumbsie® – it works every time I recommend it! The Thumbsie® provides a fun way for a dentist or parent to help the child stop sucking because after all, it’s a hard habit to kick. There are so many different designs, kids get so excited to choose one and when they get it, they can’t wait to get started. Thank you Thumbsie®!”

Dr Dan Shaffer of Pure Dentistry says “They are fun with funky designs and kids love them. The cloth acts as a reminder. The children can get involved in the process when they choose their own designs and feel that they are in control and take ownership of their Thumbsies®. We have had a lot of successes with our patients, we have about 4 children at the moment that are using Thumbsie®. It’s a positive way to help and it’s our “go to” solution.”

Read what more dentists are saying about Thumbsie®.

In 2019 Thumbsie® was recognised for excellence and  awarded Innovation of the Year at the Dental Industry Awards, for pushing the boundaries of the dental profession. In May 2020 Thumbsie® was accredited by the Oral Health Foundation.

Love Heart Thumbsie® Thumb Guard

£12.45

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For more specific information on any of our products, you might like to visit our FAQ’s page and also read our Thumbsie® Google reviews.

There are particular aspects of this habit that people want to discuss and understand more fully. If you would like any more information on thumb sucking and related issues, you may wish to read through our advice pages:

• The problems with thumb sucking
• Tips on how to stop thumb sucking
• What is a Thumbsie glove?
• Does wearing a Thumbsie® really work?
• A comparison of anti-thumb sucking devices
• Do adults suck their thumbs?
• Problems with split or cracked thumbs
• Hair twirling whilst thumb sucking
• Talking about thumb sucking

Further articles to read:

• You can download a patient leaflet on the British Orthodontic Society website entitled ‘Dummy and thumb sucking habits’.
• Ditching the dummy by speech therapist Joanne Jones
• How to have a Healthy Smile for Life by dental expert Growing Smiles.
• The American Dental Association discusses digit sucking and the effects on children’s teeth
• Thumb sucking, help your child by Mayo Clinic