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Tips for Weaning Kids off the Pacifier or Thumb Sucking

June 23, 2022/in baby-services, blog-main, service-blog /by admin

Pacifiers and Thumbsucking: What You Should Know

Thumb sucking is a habit that starts in utero.  It trains the fetus to suck and swallow, so at birth, they are prepared for breastfeeding.  The use of pacifiers and continued thumb sucking habit after 6 months, can create problems with your child’s growth and development.  Ideally, the tongue should always rest on the roof our mouth.  This allows for proper expansion of the upper and jaw and it is the start position for swallowing.  The use of a pacifier and continued thumb sucking trains our tongue to be in a low position.  In this position the upper jaw is not getting the stimulus it needs to grow and our swallowing habit becomes compromised.  We start using our cheek muscles for swallowing rather than our tongue muscle. Therefore, continued pacifier use and thumb sucking can effect proper growth of the mouth and jaws, alter the alignment of the teeth and create changes in the shape of the roof of the mouth.  If not treated early, it can lead to skeletal changes in jaw alignment, an open bite of the front teeth and excessive overjet commonly referred to as an overbite.

Tips for Weaning Kids off the Pacifier or Thumb Sucking

A few tips for how to stop kids from sucking their thumb and for weaning them off the pacifier:

  • Never yell at your child for using their pacifier or sucking their thumb. Instead, lavish them with praise when they refrain.
  • When deciding to take away something so desired by the child, replace it with something great.  This will act as positive reinforcement. We believe that  Myo Munchees and Myochews are not only can be a great “replacement”, but will also positively impact lip and tongue strength and promote nasal breathing that will help jaw health and development.
  • If stopping cold turkey doesn’t work (this is mostly true for pacifiers), try a gradual approach. Start by taking away the pacifier  during happy times, like when the child is playing at home, then start to eliminate it while outside, eventually just keep the pacifier in the crib before phasing it out completely.
  • Most kids default to sucking their thumb or pacifier when they’re anxious and need comfort. Find out what’s bothering them and try to remedy the situation. Teaching them a few self-soothing techniques can go a long way as well.
  • If they need a pacifier to fall asleep or tend to suck their thumb before bed when they’re tired, try to implement a different bedtime routine that includes things they find calming like reading a bedtime story or taking a bath.
  • Most children that have a thumb sucking habit will also have a habit with the off hand (the other hand that isn’t being used during the habit).  This may be twirling their hair, nail biting.  The off-hand habit has to be recognized and addressed so that both can be resolved.
  • Who doesn’t love prizes? Set goals with your child.  When they achieve the set length of time without sucking their thumb or using a pacifier, give them a reward like letting them choose the next family activity or taking them on a trip to the movies.
  • Show your child the thumb of the hand they suck on vs. the other hand. The thumbsucking thumb is always sparkling clean. Show them the difference and explain that all the germs are going in their mouth and body.

If you’re having trouble helping your child break the habits, schedule an appointment with us today. We can teach you ways to stop thumb sucking and get rid of the pacifier to make sure your child’s development is on track.
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Holly
Medical Device Reprocessing Technician


Holly is the quiet presence at the back of our office that ensures everything is running smoothly and efficiently. You might see her as you walk by the sterilization area busy at work. Outside of the office she is a mom of two beautiful young children and enjoys spending lots of outdoor time with them.

Nanita
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With each patient interaction Nanita’s goal is to create a stress free environment for their dental visit. She loves seeing her patients leave smiling with confidence and educating them with the tools so they can reach their optimal dental health.

Outside of the office, Nanita is a busy Mom of 2 amazing kids and a Star Stylist with Stella & Dot. She also loves to travel and cook.

Anissa
Registered Dental Hygienist


Anissa has the magical ability to put everyone at ease. She provides excellent care with warmth and kindness and always shows a genuine interest to get to know her patients. Her expertise and knowledge extends not only periodontal procedures but orthodontics as well.

Guelph is home to Anissa’s entire family. She built many relationships throughout the community.

Stephanie
Registered Dental Hygienist and Oromyofunctional Therapist


Stephanie has a witty sense of humour that puts everyone at ease. You can often hear the laughter coming from her operatory during appointments. She is committed to educating patients about their oral health and motivating them to reach their optimal oral and overall wellness.

Stephanie is also a Myofunctional Provider. She teaches breathing retraining and assesses for any oral muscular dysfunction of lip posture, tongue posture and swallowing. Once correct habits and function have been instilled, then development can reach its full potential.

Stephanie stays very busy with her three boys and enjoys traveling the world.

Teresa
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Teresa has many years of working in the Guelph dental community. She is all heart and always goes the extra mile to make patients feel comfortable. Her skill and Italian flare make her so enjoyable to be around and integral part of our dental team.

Elaine
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Elaine has over 30 years experience as a dental assistant (or 99 years as you will often hear her say). She has been working at Harvard Rd Dental Care right from the beginning! Her positive attitude and contagious smile always puts patients at ease. She prides herself on helping educate patients about their oral and dental health and how it relates to their overall wellness. Her greatest joy is being an Omi to her granddaughter, Addison.

Kailynne
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Kailynne is probably the kindest person you will ever meet. Always eager to help patients and everyone in the office. She will always greet with a sweet smile while making every effort to make your visit positive.

Kailynne enjoys spending time with her family and loves being with her dog Oliver.

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Your first interaction at our office will likely be with Laurie. Laurie’s warmth and love of dentistry is apparent in every interaction. All questions are always happily taken care of with Laurie at the helm of our administrative team.

Laurie grew up in Puslinch and is married with 3 children. She truly enjoys yoga, weight lifting and target shooting. Laurie is also very interested in a holistic approach to nourishing and taking care of the body.