FAMILY : Besides, Candy Is Much Tastier

Thumb sucking is a normal habit, practiced by one in four children at age 2.

Still, parents worry about psychological effects, other kids poking fun and, later, huge orthodontic bills.

To ease those fears, two researchers recently summarized 50 years of research in the Journal of Dentistry for Children, offering tips on how and when to end the habit.

Thumb sucking feels good because it brings back pleasant memories of newborn feedings and cuddling, say Brent Larson, a Mayo Clinic orthodontist, and Eric Johnson, a former Mayo orthodontic resident.

By 4, some suggest, thumb sucking should be discouraged. But Larson and Johnson propose a more individual approach. First, make sure the habit isn’t sparked by psychological problems. Next:

* Let your child know about long-term dental risks. Your dentist could elaborate.

* Identify prime times during the day for thumb sucking and make it a point to praise or reinforce your child then.

* Teach your child to substitute another habit, such as grasping the thumbs.