Does your child suck his or her thumb?
In babies and young children, thumbsucking is a normal, soothing reflex. As the permanent teeth come in, however, continued thumbsucking can cause improper growth of the mouth and tooth misalignment.
– Children should stop thumbsucking by the time the permanent teeth come in, usually around six or seven years of age.
– You can try changing your child’s habit by offering praise and rewards for not sucking the thumb. If this does not help, consult with your dentist.