1. Is thumb sucking a natural habit?

Yes, thumb sucking a natural habit until the age of 4. Continuation of the habit beyond the age of 6 will result in mal-alignment of teeth. Most children will give up this habit by themselves, but in cases where this doesn’t occur a dentist should be consulted.

2. Is there any other effect of thumb sucking other than that on the teeth?

Sucking on a dirty finger can make the child prone to infection, as during this stage children normally tend to play with sand or dirt.