How to Stop a Kid's Bad Lip-Sucking Habit

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry describes lip sucking, among other oral fixations, as a common childhood habit that typically begins as a way to satisfy an urge for contact or security. Though it's normal in children under the age of 3, persistent lip sucking can result in tissue trauma, nerve damage and facial ramifications, as well as long-term dental and jaw development problems that may be expensive, time-consuming and painful to fix. Early intervention and open communication with your pediatric dentist are critical in helping your child kick this harmful habit.

Instructions

    • 1

      Consider his age. Though the earlier the nonnutritive oral fixation of lip sucking is stopped the better, expecting a child under the age of 8 to control the compulsive behavior is unrealistic, according to "Registered Dental Hygienist" magazine. If he is over the age of 8, it's important to focus on breaking the habit.

    • 2

      Assess the severity of the problem. Pay attention to the frequency and length of time he sucks his lip. Notice if there is a particular time of day, like when he gets tired, or a specific activity, such as concentrating on homework, that triggers his lip sucking. Keep track of the behavior in a journal, noting the date, time of day and length of time the sucking lasted.

    • 3

      Discuss your concerns with your child. Explain the short- and long-term consequences of the behavior. Include the aesthetic importance of discontinuing the behavior, as well as the injuries being caused by sucking his lips. Avoid using any degrading or humiliating verbiage; tell him you believe he can stop and offer to help him to end the destructive behavior.

    • 4

      Brainstorm alternatives for situation-induced lip sucking. Encourage deep breathing as a way to redirect his energy and attention away from sucking his lips.

    • 5

      Agree to a cue and use it. Decide on an audible or physical cue to make him aware of when he is sucking his lips. Use it consistently.

    • 6

      Create a reward system. Choose appropriate rewards based on an agreed-upon amount of time with no lip sucking, depending on the severity of the behavior.

    • 7

      Visit your dentist. If the behavior does not improve or becomes worse, contact a pediatric dentist to discuss your concerns. Ask for a complete oral evaluation and request ongoing medical documentation of your child's lip-sucking progress.

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