Understanding the Thumb Sucking Habit
Babies and toddlers often suck their thumbs or fingers as a source of comfort, especially during sleep or stressful moments. In most cases, children outgrow the habit on their own between ages 2 and 4.However, if thumb sucking continues beyond this age — especially once permanent teeth begin to emerge — it can affect jaw growth and tooth alignment. Long-term habits may lead to bite issues like open bite or speech development concerns.