preschooler (3–5 years)

To Suck Or Not To Suck

A wee one or tot that sucks her thumb or fingers can be a blessing because she can easily comfort herself. This blessing can turn into a concern when your preschooler resists kicking the habit. Most will outgrow the need for thumb/finger sucking, but others will need help. If the habit continues once permanent teeth come in, growth problems of the mouth and jaw as well as misalignment of teeth can occur. Here are some tips to help your preschooler kick the habit:

• Keep the reinforcement positive. Be sure to draw attention to the times she isn’t sucking her thumb/finger. Remember that this is a comforting behavior for her and it isn’t going to be easy to quit.

• Put a sock or bandage on it. This will help her remember she doesn’t need to suck that thumb/finger.

• Try some bitter tasting medication. This should not be used as punishment, but rather a reminder not to suck the thumb/finger.

• Wait it out. Listen to the recommendations of your doctor and dentist and follow their lead. Again, most kids will outgrow this habit.

A Bad Rap

We all have heard that candy is bad for teeth, but is it really true? Cavities are caused by acid eating at the tooth’s enamel. This acid is a byproduct of bacteria that feasts on the food left behind in your teeth. So, the truth is, regardless of what your preschooler is eating, if they are not brushing routinely, the food left behind increases the likelihood of cavities occurring. The solution - keep meals and snacks healthy, candy in moderation (like everything else) and brush those teeth twice a