pacis

Stopping Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use

May 22nd, 2014

Do you have a young one who still sucks his/her thumb or uses a pacifier?  These habits are normal for infants and toddlers. However, some young children become very dependent on thumb sucking or pacifier use. Many children stop on their own, but if your child is still harboring these habits into their preschool years, it may be time for parents to get involved.

There are many options to help them stop utilizing this habit including positive reinforcement and rewards.  Some parents have the "pacifier fairy" come and take the pacifiers away and leave a small prize.  Others use sticker charts and give other small prizes for not engaging in these habits.  Still others try to replace the use of thumb sucking or pacifiers by letting the child take a special toy to bed at time.

For older children, there are dental appliances available.  You can ask us if this is appropriate for your child.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!