WHAT IS A HABIT?

A habit is a behaviour pattern that is settled into due to frequent repetition that has become nearly or completely involuntary (paraphrased from Merriam-Webster Dictionary)

WHAT IS A HABIT?

A habit is a behavior pattern that is settled into due to frequent repetition; and has become nearly or completely involuntary (paraphrased from Merriam-Webster Dictionary).  In other words it's something we do without even thinking about it.

WHEN DO CHILDREN START SUCKING THEIR FINGER?

Some children have been seen on ultrasound sucking their finger in mom's womb!  A child may suck their thumb or any other finger or fingers.  This thumb sucking behavior when allowed to repeat itself over time, can become such a habit that the child is not even aware that they are doing it.  As you can imagine, the longer it continues, the more difficult it is to stop.  

WHY DO CHILDREN SUCK THEIR FINGER?

The major reason a child sucks their finger is for comfort.  This becomes very obvious when you try to get them to stop.  They will often cry and pop that finger right back in their mouth.  In earlier stages they could just be doing so to mimic feeding from the breast or the bottle - what's known as non-nutritive sucking and discover at some point that it feels good and comfy and makes them feel safe.  Continued over time it just settles in to a good old habit.

IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO AT HOME?

There are various recommendations that I have given to parents with varying levels of success.  I will share a few.

• Provide a soothing source of distraction.  Music, activities using the hands, or simply cuddling and providing yourself as comfort.
• An orthodontic pacifier which can be weaned over time.
• Mittens
• Specially formulated tinctures sold over the counter 
• Reminders

If you are unsuccessful in getting your child to stop, do not allow this to become a source of contention in the home.  This can increase your little one's stress and their need to keep sucking their finger.  

WHEN SHOULD I SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP?

• I encourage parents to come in to see us no matter the age of their child.  Simply talking with a Professional can help to alleviate concerns and provide guidance as to how they can help their little one.
• As an Orthodontist, my own philosopy of practice is to begin treatment when the child has some desire to stop and before the permanent front teeth come in. 

CONSEQUENCES OF LONGTERM FINGER SUCKING HABIT?

Each child is different and therefore the results of a finger sucking habit that is allowed to continue will differ.  However, I will list a few....

1. Open Bite
2. Crossbite
3. Tongue thrust
4. Speech issues such as lisping
5. Elongated facial developments
6. Self esteem issues

CONCLUSION

Finger sucking is a habit that develops in children as a means of providing comfort.  We have outlined various at home methods of helping your little one and when to get help if unsuccessful. 

Seeking Professional help becomes important if you begin to feel helpless in your attempts to help, no matter how old your child is.  We are able to provide the support and direction you need. 

The consequences of a finger sucking habit continued through childhood and into the teen years can be mild to severe if left untreated.  Please seek help from a Professional, if you feel unable to manage at home.

Thanks for visiting and see you in our next blog….

Written by

Dr. Martine A. DeCambre, BSc, BSN, DDS, Orthodontic Certif.

Orthodontist and Dentofacial Orthopedist

Owner Braces For Us 2.0

“Early Orthodontic Treatment is indeed a gift.”

-Dr. DeCambre

REFERENCES

Proffitt, William R.:  Contemporary Orthodontics St. Louis (3rd Ed.) , 2000, Mosby.

McDonald, RE, Avery DA:  Dentistry for the Child and Adolescent, (6th Ed.), 1994, Mosby.

Garber TM:  The finger sucking habit and associated problems, J DENT CHILD 25:  145-151, 1958.

This blog is for educational purposes only.  Please seek professional help to address concerns.