Anyone with a child knows they are born with the sucking reflex. Thumb sucking in children is a natural part of early development. Sucking is the innate way a child seeks nutrients, whether through breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Young children often pacify themselves with pacifiers or other suckling toys between feedings, which helps them self-soothe. At certain ages, many children may switch from pacifiers to thumb sucking, as another means to calm themselves.

Nearly 75% of all infants suck their thumbs or fingers during their first year. While this habit provides comfort, thumb sucking can also be triggered by boredom, sleepiness, or other emotional factors. You might notice your child sucking their thumb while holding a blanket or curling a strand of hair—these are common signs of self-soothing behavior.

Too much thumb sucking can be a concern for some parents. One of the most common questions we hear is: “When should I worry about thumb sucking?” While your trusted pediatrician can provide specific guidance, there are general signs and milestones to look out for, especially if you’re wondering how to stop thumb sucking before it causes problems.

Problems With Thumb Sucking

Parents concerned about the effects of thumb sucking may have heard various myths, but there are genuine risks associated with prolonged thumb-sucking habits—particularly when permanent teeth begin to emerge.

Children who continue to suck their thumbs around age 5 or older may develop dental issues like an overbite, misaligned teeth, or even speech delays. In particular, thumb sucking can interfere with making the “S” sound or other tongue-based phonetics. In some cases, thumb sucking and dental health go hand-in-hand, requiring both behavior correction and oral treatment. Remember, breaking the thumb sucking habit is not just cosmetic—it’s often necessary for healthy development.

Other issues include minor concerns like chapped skin or fingernail infections, especially on the dominant thumb. Because the mouth carries bacteria, frequent contact can increase the risk of irritation or infection.

Are Pacifiers Safe?

You may first notice thumb sucking in your baby around six months of age. Generally, the habit is harmless in infancy, but thumb sucking after age 4 may lead to dental concerns such as an open bite or, in extreme cases, facial structure changes.

To prevent early thumb sucking habits, some parents use pacifiers between feedings. Pacifiers can serve as a safer alternative, but they should never replace feeding itself. Like thumb sucking, using a pacifier helps fulfill a child’s need for comfort and offers parents a brief break.

If your child sucks their thumb primarily at nap time, consider alternating with a pacifier. While they may become upset if it falls out during sleep, pacifiers are safer overall than thumb sucking and can be more easily weaned. Be sure to avoid pacifiers attached to strings or cribs, as those can pose serious safety hazards.

Experts recommend phasing out pacifiers by age 2, once all baby teeth have developed, to prevent any long-term effects on oral health.

How Do I Get My Child To Stop Sucking Their Thumb?

If you’re asking how to stop thumb sucking, the approach will vary depending on your child’s age and temperament. Start with open communication. Help your child understand that you’re working together to overcome the habit.

Sometimes, thumb sucking in older children is used to gain attention. In such cases, ignoring the behavior can be effective. Constant negative feedback may worsen the habit, as children might associate the behavior with getting a reaction.

Try These Strategies:

Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate small milestones. Use stickers on a calendar, offer small rewards, or plan outings to encourage your child to go without thumb sucking.

Identify Triggers: Thumb sucking often stems from stress or anxiety. Pay attention to what might be causing discomfort. Extra affection, new bedtime stories, or even a new stuffed toy can help.

Gentle Reminders: Avoid scolding or shaming your child. Instead, use supportive and gentle cues to help them remember their goal. This is especially important because thumb sucking can be a trauma response, not just a habit.

Don’t Panic, And Offer Support

While it’s natural to be concerned, thumb sucking in children is typically not harmful in early years. Staying calm and supportive is key. These are sensitive developmental stages, and your response will shape how your child manages the transition.

If the habit persists or causes oral changes, consult a pediatrician or pediatric dentist. Professionals can evaluate the situation and may suggest interventions such as dental appliances or behavioral tools. If you're unsure when to talk to a pediatrician about thumb sucking, the general rule is around age 4 to 5 if the habit is still strong.

No matter what approach you take, remember: progress takes patience. With love, understanding, and professional support when needed, your child can successfully leave the thumb-sucking stage behind.