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| | Thumb Sucking |
Thumb sucking is one of the most common habits of children. The habit starts early in life, with 90 percent of newborns showing some form of hand sucking by 2 hours of age.
Thumb sucking is normal in infants and young children and should cause no permanent problems if it is not continued past the age of 5. Likewise, it is generally harmless for infants to use pacifiers.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry states that most children stop thumb sucking on their own between the ages of 2 and 4. The Academy states there is no reason to be concerned until the front teeth start erupting. At this point, some problems may occur, including bite problems, or protruding front teeth. Other problems that may occur with thumb sucking are sore thumbs, infections, and calluses on the thumb.
It is thought that pacifier use may actually be better than thumb sucking for the following reasons:
- Pacifiers are softer and cause less damage to the teeth.
- The plastic rim on the pacifier provides some relief of the tension placed on the teeth.
- Pacifiers can be cleaned.
Consult your child's physician if you are concerned with your child's thumb sucking. Generally, it is not a problem for children under the age of 5.
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The information on this Web page is provided for educational purposes. You understand and agree that this information is not intended to be, and should not be used as, a substitute for medical treatment by a health care professional. You agree that Lucile Salter Packard Children’s Hospital is not making a diagnosis of your condition or a recommendation about the course of treatment for your particular circumstances through the use of this Web page. You agree to be solely responsible for your use of this Web page and the information contained on this page. Lucile Salter Packard Children’s Hospital, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and information providers shall not be liable for any damages you may suffer or cause through your use of this page even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
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Lucile Packard Children's Hospital is located in Palo Alto, adjacent to Stanford University Hospital, approximately 20 miles north of San Jose, CA and 40 miles south of San Francisco.
Lucile Packard Children's Hospital
725 Welch Road
Palo Alto, California 94304
(650) 497-8000
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