Sucking relaxes babies

Studies show that soothers are better for healthy dental development than thumb sucking.

Background

The sucking reflex develops as early as the 29th week of pregnancy. Sucking is the first complex movement pattern with newborns. The natural need to suck is not completely satisfied by feeding and because of this, babies frequently suck their thumbs. The potential adverse effects of thumb sucking on the teeth and jaw are therefore the subject of numerous studies.

Methodology

Baer and Lester performed a meta-analysis using studies that examined the sucking behaviour of children, showed the effects of thumb sucking and soothers or addressed the circumstances of teething.

Results

• Constant thumb sucking can lead to poor tooth positioning, the extent of which depends on the frequency, length and intensity of the habit.
• 50 to 67 percent of 0 – 2 year olds suck their thumbs. For 2 – 5 year olds it is 24 to 43 percent and for 6 – 10 year olds it is still 17 percent.
• To prevent thumb sucking, a baby should be offered a soother within the first three months.
• Children can give up a soother much more easily than sucking their thumb.
• The natural need to suck decreases at about 6 months. Many babies begin teething at this age and want to chew and massage their gums.
• Chewing on something is good for teething children. Teethers are ideal. They are blunt, shatterproof and babies can hold them easily.

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