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Thumb-Sucking
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Thumb-sucking behavior before age 4 is normal and does not require medical tests or evaluation. Children who continue to suck their thumbs after age 4 or 5 may need a:
- Dental exam, to identify any irregularities of the teeth, bite, or jaw.
- Speech evaluation, if word pronunciations are affected or other irregularities develop.
If the habit is severe and appears to be related to other behavioral disorders, such as anxiety, or a reaction from a traumatic event, a psychological evaluation may be needed.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: September 9, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics John Pope, MD - Pediatrics | |
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