Infants often begin sucking their finger or thumb before they are even born. In most cases stopping the problem prior to age four is a very difficult if not impossible. Problems such as a crossbite of the back teeth and development of a large opening between the upper and lower front teeth can occur.

Try to eliminate the use of a pacifier as soon as the teeth begin to erupt. When choosing a pacifier always use an orthodontic pacifier.  Round "binky" pacifiers can cause severe growth damage to the upper jaw and cause malalignment of the teeth.

There are two methods of stopping this habit. One uses a 2.5-inch ace bandage and the other involves the insertion of a habit appliance. An ace bandage is wrapped around the arm from the shoulder to the wrist. Use care not to place too much pressure on the arm.  The goal of this treatment is to make the arm feel uncomfortable, thus removing the pleasure of the habit.