Sucking is literally a life-sustaining force when a baby is born. That impulse to suck is what allows an infant to nurse or have a bottle. Thumb sucking by extension can also be a way that babies self-soothe when they are fussy, tired or bored. However, if thumb sucking or the use of a pacifier continues beyond the ages of two to four, then it can lead to dental problems. As your Leesburg family dentist, I’d like to help you help your child break the habit. Please read on to learn about the consequences of long-term thumb sucking and how to help your child stop.

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