MANAGEMENTforThumbsucking(Pediatrics).pptx

Management for thumbsucking

1. MANAGEMENT 1. OBSERVATION AND REASSURANCE : Thumb sucking is common in children under 4 years of age and disappear on its own. Therefore reassurance to parent is initial step so they should be encourage to avoid pressuring the child. 2. POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT: Encouraging parents to use reward system like star chart, praise or small incentives for periods when the child refrains from thumb sucking.

2. 3. BEHAVIOURAL TECHNIQUES: Distraction techniques can be used by engaging child in alternative activities This involves keeping hands occupied or using comfort objects. 4. PHYSICAL BARRIERS: If behavioural interventions are ineffective then thumb guards or bitter and sour chemicals like quinine , pepper and femite can be used but they are only recommended in older children.

3. 5. DENTAL INTERVENTIONS : If thumb sucking leads to dental issues like open bite or malocclusion then the child should be referred to paediatric dentist. They may use palatal crib to prevent thumb placement in the mouth. 6. ADDRESS UNDERLYING CAUSE: If the thumb sucking is associated with stress or anxiety , addressing underlying emotional and environmental factors such as changes in the family or school can help to reduce the behaviour.