SRUTI
THUMB and digit sucking is one of the commonly seen habits that most children indulge in. Recent studies have shown that the infant may practice thumb sucking even during its stay in the mother’s womb.
A number of theories have been put forward to explain why thumb sucking occurs; some say that it’s a distinct phase in the psychological development, others feel its because of emotional insecurity, deprivation of parental affection and reassurance; or it could be just another habit the child may have developed. Read on about the phases and effects of thumb sucking and what you can do to help your child outgrow it.

Phases in thumb sucking
Phase 1 (normal 0-3 years): The presence of thumb sucking during the first three years of life is considered quite normal and usually terminates at the end of phase one.

Phase 2 (clinically significant sucking 3-6 ½ years): The presence of sucking during this period is an

indication that the child is under great anxiety.
Phase 3 (intractable sucking 6 years and beyond): Any thumb sucking persisting beyond the sixth year points to the underlying psychological aspects of the habit and a psychologist has to be consulted.

Effects of thumb sucking:
The severity of the dental problems caused by thumb sucking depends on the trident of factors, which are duration, frequency and intensity of the habit. The upper front teeth procline outward and the lower front teeth tilt inward. Buckteeth are a huge embarrassment to anybody, let alone children. The upper front teeth do not overlap the lower front ones resulting in a gap, which is called an open bite. The cheek muscles contract during thumb sucking leading to narrow dental arches in the mouth, which predisposes to further problems.

Overcoming the habit:
Thumb sucking can be dealt with in a three-fold programme:

1. Psychological approach: Parents, particularly when both are working, should be counseled to provide the child with adequate love and affection. Parents are also advised to divert the child’s attention to other things such as play and toys.
2. Chemical aids: Use of bitter tasking or foul smelling preparations such as pepper or asafetida on the digit that is sucked can make the habit distasteful.

3. Mechanical aids: Your dentist will be able to provide mechanical aids, which are basically reminding appliances that assist the child who is willing to quit the habit but is unable to do so as the habit has entered a subconscious level. These habit-breaking appliances usually consist of a crib placed behind the upper incisors and can be removable or fixed. Other aids that can be used to intercept the habit include bandaging the thumb/ digit, and bandaging of the elbow.
Given the time, motivation, adequate parental care and guidance at the dental office, most children will definitely be able to give-up the habit and channelise their energies into other activities. Thumb up to that.

The author is dental surgeon and can be contacted at ALL SMILES DENTAL CLINIC, 26673439, 9845085290.