Did you know that most babies suck their thumb, even in the womb? This generally isn’t a problem, as many children naturally kick the habit before their fifth birthday. This is before most children stat getting permanent teeth, which is why most pediatricians aren’t too worried about thumb sucking.

It seems the teeth that eventually fall out and are replaced by adult versions wouldn’t be so important, but some older kids with permanent teeth suck their thumbs, too. In this case, the pressure can have negative oral impacts that carry into adulthood. Here’s what you need to know to protect your child’s teeth.

1. Know the causes and signs. Most children suck their thumbs for comfort. When they are stressed or scared, thumb sucking can be a natural response to manage those emotions. The amount of time your child sucks his or her thumb can also make a difference on the seriousness of the effects on permanent teeth. If you notice your preschool-age child is sucking his or her thumb frequently during the day and night, it’s a good idea to explore other ways for your child to self-sooth. Pediatricians and psychologists often have great techniques to help children manage their fears and stressors.
2. Make your child a partner in tackling the problem. When children feel like they are a part of the process and solution, they’re less likely to fight the process of kicking the habit. Explain to older children how teeth develop over time and why thumb sucking can be harmful to this development. Be sure to ask your pediatric dentist for tips on managing any embarrassment your child may feel about this habit.
3. Take good care of your teeth, as well as your child’s. As with most things in a baby’s life, it’s best to lead by example. Having a well-established oral care routine long before your baby is born is an ideal way to establish and model healthy habits early on. Before baby’s first birthday, wipe his or her gums with a baby washcloth to keep the mount clean. When the first teeth appear, brush them with a grain-of-rice sized bit of fluoride toothpaste. During years one through three, brush your baby’s teeth twice daily for two minutes. This will also get him or her used to oral care habits. It will also make it easier to explain why thumb sucking can go against some of the other good habits your child is already practicing.
4. Get your child into the dentist before the first birthday. The dentist can help you prevent problems before they start. Because treating misaligned or damaged adult teeth can be costly, it’s best to get a jump start on proper oral care. The dentist can also give tips and tricks to help establish brushing and oral care routines from the beginning, as well as ways to make kicking the thumb sucking habit as seamless as possible. He or she will also be happy to answer any questions you have about this process.

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are the best way to supplement good dental habits. They’re important for the whole family. To find out the latest and best information about your family’s specific needs, talk to your dentist. A professional can help you determine what procedures to schedule and how to maintain good oral health outside the office.