Thumb Sucking in Babies - Causes And How to Deal With it

Most babies have a fascination of sucking their thumbs. As parents, for us, this can be quite worrisome. Not only can thumb sucking in babies be habit forming, it can also cause babies to fall sick due to the numerous bacteria and viruses that enter your little one’s system. Sucking thumbs and fingers is a habit that can be quite hard to break.

What is Thumb Sucking in Babies?

Your lovely bird is born with the inclination to suck their thumb, just like all other babies. Many times, babies start to put their thumbs into their mouths from the womb itself! They have an innate tendency to suck something, and the thumb and the other fingers are the easiest sucking toys for her.

Thumb sucking gives babies a sense of safety. Thus, they get habituated to this whenever they want to sleep or relax.

Why Do Babies Suck Their Thumb?

Thumb sucking in babies is a completely normal thing, and here are some reasons for thumb sucking in babies.

1. It is Rooted in Their System

Babies get their nourishment from milk. And their bodies know that they have to suck for this purpose. Therefore, it’s one of their natural reflexes to suck.

2. Sucking Relaxes Your Baby

Their tendency to suck is not only linked to their appetite but also to the feeling of peace. Even when your cute thumb lover is well-fed, they might insert her little thumb in her mouth. This is where non-nutritive sucking comes into the picture. Babies soothe themselves with this strategy!

How Long Does Thumb Sucking Last?

The natural craving in babies to suck something fades away by the time they get 6 or 7 months old. Sometimes, babies drag on this habit till they get 2 or even 4 years old. However, your little one may lean on to this behavior anytime they feel stressed.

Is Thumb Sucking Normal in Babies?

Thumb sucking is a habit that all infants share, and it’s not something to get stressed about(at least in the beginning!). Your baby is fascinated by seeing the world. So, putting things and fingers into their mouth is her unique way to gratify their curious brain. Further, some infants soothe themselves by taking stuffed animals and blankets into their mouths.

Can Thumb Sucking Cause Any Problems in Babies?

Thumb sucking is a concern once permanent teeth begin to come. If she continues this habit, even at this age, it might affect her teeth formation. Therefore, you should contact the expert if she continues to be a thumb sucking princess, even after 5 years of age.

Top 3 Side Effects of Thumb Sucking in Babies

If your darling doesn’t stop her cute thumb sucking habit, it may create some unpleasant side effects for her:

1. Speech and Swallowing Problems

Excessive Thumb sucking may create issues in speaking and swallowing.

2. Changes in the Face Structure

Babies who suck their thumbs compulsively might be prone to develop a little distorted face structure.

3. Health Problems

Her hands are not always clean. Thus, harmful bacteria can infect her if they enter her system.

Top 5 Tips to Stop Thumb Sucking in Babies

Here are few tips that will help you in weaning your baby from thumb sucking:

1. Seek a Dentist’s Help

A professional can easily capture your baby’s interest and motivate them to take care of their teeth and overall oral health.

2. Use a Bitter Nail Polish

This method is a very potent way to stop your baby’s thumb sucking. However, they must understand that she must stop this habit. The moment she unconsciously starts sucking her thumb, she’ll get a quick reminder.

3. Reward Them

Give your child their favourite sticker or a token on the days when they successfully avoid this habit. At the same time though, your little one must realize the benefits of not sucking her thumb. This is because babies may continue these habits when you’re not looking.

4. Using Visual Objects as a Reminder

Tying an elastic band or a bow to your baby’s thumb will do a fabulous job as a reminder. But again, they must be motivated enough to stop the habit, which can only happen if you seek expert guidance.

5. Take it Lightly

If your baby is struggling to control their tendency of thumb sucking, tell them they can suck the thumb while sleeping or watching TV and not at other times. Slowly, they will leave the habit even while doing the above things.

[Read : Breaking The Thumb Sucking Habit]

Thumb Sucking vs Pacifiers – Which is Better?

Both of the habits are not good for the long term. However, pacifiers are a good alternative to thumb sucking, as you can see in the below table.

Pros/Cons	Pacifier	Thumb Sucking
Pros	Babies can’t access it without the help of their parents. Safeguards your baby from the risk of SIDS( Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).	Gives her a feeling of safety.
Cons	It may affect her speaking development abilities if used for long term. Interferes with teeth development abilities if continued after 2 years of age.	More difficult to break the habit pattern than pacifiers. Has more chances of getting infected.

Thumb sucking is a natural and instinctive habit for a baby. Putting thumb in the mouth can provide a sense of relief and comfort from babies, especially when they are going through a stressful period, separation anxiety, or in some cases, even teething.

Your baby will soon be able to break this bad habit with a bit of your love and patience. Praise them when they avoid (or even try to) thumb sucking, and you’ll see that your little one is able to successfully let go of this habit.

[Read : Pros And Cons Of Using A Pacifier]

FAQ’s

1. Does Thumb Sucking Mean the Baby is Hungry?

If your baby mostly starts sucking the thumb at meal times, and stops it afterwards, it means your little one is hungry.

2. Why Does My Baby Put His Hand in His Mouth When Eating?

It means your baby is curious to know what they are eating. Allow your little one to feel the texture of the food.

3. How Do I Stop My Baby From Putting the Thumb in the Mouth?

You must have a lot of patience. Gently remind your baby to stop whenever you find your baby thumb sucking. Do not lose your temper. Use the system of rewards and appreciation to encourage your baby to stop the habit.

Thumb Sucking in Babies – Causes And How to Deal With it

What is Thumb Sucking in Babies?