Have you ever wondered when your child should stop sucking their thumbs? Have you ever wondered if the thumb or finger-sucking toddlers tooth decay? Both as a mother and a dentist, this is a question I too have to ask. The answer to this is yes and no. Many toddlers love the convenience of the thumb or finger sucking presents.

They feel safe, secure and comforted by this act small, seemingly harmless. They often feel so comforted by it that we, as parents, are more concerned about making them stop than the potential damage it can cause. Especially since we know that the process is likely to be full of fury and more sleepless nights! It is very important to stop finger sucking and thumb sucking of your child.

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The thumb and finger sucking can be safe for teeth toddlers up to a certain age range. In general, the thumb or finger sucking is safe until about the age of four. Children who suck their thumbs or fingers will get what they usually call the public “against the teeth.”

If the thumb sucking is stopped before the age of four, generally the teeth will return to their normal place in the mouth and looks less “fight.” However, as the child grows older, the teeth move less easily and therefore cannot be returned to its original position.  Because of the permanent teeth in gear following the pattern of a toddler, then they will usually go in where the baby teeth.