Quitting thumb sucking can be one of the most difficult habits to break for many children. For some, this habit begins in utero and is often part of falling asleep or done during sleep. It is a natural way that many children self-soothe and can be beneficial during infancy. However, it is important to break this habit by age 4. Sucking thumbs or fingers can lead to developmental defects in the hard palate, cause orthodontic problems like buck teeth, and affect a child’s self-esteem negatively. Talking to the child about these negative consequences of continuing with this habit is important. Pharmacies sell a bitter tasting paint you can apply to the fingers to deter the child from the habit. Creating a reward system for breaking the habit can be motivating for many kids. If these do not work, it is possible for a dentist to place an appliance on the teeth that will make placing the thumb in the mouth uncomfortable.