Many parents of a thumb-sucking infant question whether they should
substitute a pacifier for the thumb. So far, research does not indicate that
one is preferable over the other. In addition, although parents can encourage a
child to suck a pacifier rather than a thumb, they cannot control which the
child will prefer.
Although the advantages and disadvantages of pacifier use and
thumb-sucking aren't always entirely clear, there are some general issues for
parents to consider.
The advantages of using a pacifier include being able to control
when your child is allowed to use it, and being able to take the pacifier away
when it is no longer appropriate. However, pacifiers may increase your child's
risk of getting middle ear infections when they are used after 12 months of
age.
An advantage of thumb-sucking is that it doesn't seem to interfere
with breast-feeding, and children usually stop on their own between the ages of
3 to 5. However, if thumb-sucking develops into a habit past age 4, the child
may develop dental problems. Also, it may be more difficult for a child to stop
thumb-sucking than using a pacifier.
Talk to your health professional about how long you should wait
before introducing a pacifier to a breast-feeding infant.
Keep in mind that there is no reason to encourage thumb-sucking or
pacifier use in infants who do not indicate a need. The sucking instinct in
these infants is satisfied through breast- or bottle-feeding.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here.
