How to Make a Baby Stop Sucking His Thumb

The sight of your baby sucking her thumb, even after your persistent efforts to quit the habit, can be annoying. But understand that sucking her thumb is an action that your baby finds soothing and, as it is relaxing, it induces sleep. This is the reason why parents of thumb-sucking children often find it easier to put them to sleep than their peers without the habit. However; according to the American Dental Association, thumb-sucking can cause teeth misalignment or alter the mouth roof in children that continue to suck their thumb after the formation of permanent teeth. The severity of the problem depends on the intensity of the sucking. Babies that suck vigorously face greater risk of dental problems than babies that keep their thumb passively in the mouth. Permanent problems may arise if children do not stop the habit by four or five years of age. You can help your baby wean from the habit smoothly.

Instructions

    • 1

      Rub something that tastes bad on your baby's thumb to discourage him from putting his thumb into hismouth. This could be a drop of vinegar or pickle oil. Alternatively, put your baby's thumb in liquid vanilla, which tastes bitter, and then allow it to air-dry. Do not use the same substance on the thumb all the time because your baby could get used to the taste; keep changing it. Cover the baby's hand with a sock if the above tips don't work.

    • 2

      Distract your baby whenever she puts her thumb in her mouth by engaging her in an activity that requires her to use both of her hands. This could be getting her to hold a huge toy or stuffed animal or other. If you notice her sucking thumb during bedtime, distract her by asking her to hold the storybook that you are reading to her with both hands.

    • 3

      Do not force the thumb out of your baby's mouth. Children usually suck only when they are feeling insecure or want comfort. Offer comfort.

    • 4

      Involve your baby's pediatrician and dentist in the process. These are people that have been in your child's life for a long time and as such can respond to them well. The pediatrician or dentist can make the child feel that she needs to put a stop to the habit as she is growing up. Your dentist or pediatrician may also prescribe a bitter-tasting medication to apply on the thumb.

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