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Thumb-Sucking: Helping Your Child Stop
Introduction
Many infants and young children calm themselves by sucking their thumbs. While most children will stop on their own between ages 3 and 6, some continue past the age of 4 or 5. Prolonged thumb-sucking can lead to serious dental and speech problems. By using lots of love, encouragement, and a few simple steps, you can help your child succeed in breaking the thumb-sucking habit.
What problems are caused by thumb-sucking?
Why is it important to stop prolonged thumb-sucking?
How do we start?
Where to go from here
Return to topic:
Last Updated:
September 9, 2010- Medical Review:
- Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MD, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
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