RE: [ozmidwifery] thumb or dummy!?

[Ken Ward]

As a mother and a midwife I say do what suits. I personally would not give a dummy at 6 mths. baby can find a thumb, not so a dummy. Less hunting around and trauma when the dummy has been left behind. Thumb also more hygienic.  dentists do blame both thumbs and dummies for dental problems.  If you are going to use a dummy steer clear of the orthondic ones. Good old fashioned 'cherry' type best.   All my lot had dummies, youngest could get 2 in, and try a 3rd.  All 'off' them by about 2, no dental problems, no great traumas.  Friend's kid had a dummy till about 6. Teeth were a little bucked, but went to normal once the dummy removed.  I think there is far too much pressure on mum's. DO WHAT FEELS RIGHT FOR YOU.                                                                                                                                            Maureen -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of J Stewart Sent: Monday, February 24, 2003 12:13 AM To: ozmid Cc: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [ozmidwifery] thumb or dummy!? Dear List(s)!   Just looking for a little bit of general advice on an old debate! I have a six month old baby cousin [very cute!] she has taken to sucking her thumb as she is starting to get some toothy pegs! and her mum is not in favour of giving her a dummy. I was wondering what opinions are on this? I would think that sucking thumbs could effect tooth development and the direction/position in which they grow, as well as forming a hard to kick habbit in todlers, but have also heard interesting points against dummies.   Any thoughts!?   Thanks in advance! Jessica.