Thumb Sucking Habit

Thumb sucking is a common habit in babies and children. Many kids will stop sucking their thumb on their own, usually between ages 2-4, but this isn’t always the case.

Thumb Sucking in Babies, Toddlers, and Children

Babies have natural reflexes that cause them to start sucking their thumb. Thumb sucking functions as a way for babies and toddlers to feel comfort or soothed in moments of stress. Typically, children stop thumb sucking on their own, but not always.

It is very important for your child’s oral health that they stop thumb sucking by the age of 4, at the oldest. Past the age of four, this habit could start to have negative effects on the development of their teeth and jaw. These problems could even result in the need for orthodontic treatment later in life. Don’t worry, though! Our team can provide helpful guidance on how to break the cycle gently.

Thumb Sucking Treatment

We understand that this can be a difficult habit to break and sometimes a seemingly impossible task for a parent. So, whether you’re here for your child’s first dental visit, or they are at the age of 4—we can provide strategies to help you reduce and ultimately break your child’s thumb sucking habit. Each child is different and may require a different approach. We have at-home tips for parents below, but there are times where we will recommend a thumb sucking appliance.

Questions About Thumb Sucking?

If you're concerned about your child's thumb sucking habit or if you have any questions contact us today, request an appointment for your child, or explore the other pediatric dental services we offer using the links below.

Grin Pediatric Dentistry – Aurora, CO

18801 E Hampden Ave #178
Aurora, CO 80013
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Hours

Monday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Sunday: Closed

Phone

(720) 399-1227

Grin Pediatric Dentistry – Brighton, CO

2700 E. Bridge St. #201
Brighton, CO 80601
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Hours

Monday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Phone

(303) 659-7700

Grin Pediatric Dentistry – Lakewood, CO

7475 W Colfax #103
Lakewood, CO 80214
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Hours

Monday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Sunday: Closed

Phone

(720) 512-2879

Dental Emergency?

We’re available after hours for emergencies! Our office is located in the same shopping center as Walmart, right across the street from The Home Depot.

Grin Pediatric Dentistry — Northglenn, CO

420 E 120th Ave Unit B-11
Northglenn, CO 80233
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Hours

Monday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Sunday: Closed

Phone

(720) 453-3277

Grin Pediatric Dentistry — Centennial, CO

6870 S University Blvd
Centennial, CO 80122
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Hours

Monday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Sunday: Closed

Phone

(720) 277-5930

(Temporarily Closed) Grin Pediatric Dentistry — Denver, CO

2910 E Colfax Ave #110
Denver, CO 80206

Hours

Temporarily Closed

Phone

(720) 285-7972

Dental Emergency?

We’re available after hours for emergencies! Our office is located directly across from the Walgreens and Walmart.