Is it good to suck your thumb?

Answer 1

Considering that thumb sucking is free, legal, convenient, effective at producing calm and sleep under a variety of conditions, is nonintrusive (like smoking for instance), quiet, without drugs, alcohol, or calories...why not. It's the best, easy habit around. It's only problem is that it's not socially acceptable but if enough people do it publicly, that too can be overcome.

The downside is that it can cause extensive dental damage. The roof of them mouth can be reshaped from the sucking pressure around the thumb, which can cause swallowing difficulties. The movement of the teeth can be so severe that is causes speech issues. There is also just the cosmetic factor of the overbite and tooth gapping that comes with it. It is something that you may want to speak to your dentist about. If you are stressed and need a coping mechanism, there are healthier outlets.