How long should babies suck their thumb?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to when a baby should stop using a dummy. It depends on a number of factors, including the age of the baby, the individual preferences of the parents, and the baby's ability to self-soothe. Some parents choose to wean their baby off the dummy as early as 6 months, while others allow their baby to use it for longer. It is important to keep in mind that prolonged use of a dummy can affect a baby's speech development, as well as their teeth and jaw alignment, so it's a good idea to consider limiting its use as the baby grows. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that pacifiers be discouraged after the age of 6 months, as they may interfere with the normal development of the mouth and teeth. Furthermore, pacifiers can also interfere with the baby's ability to learn to self-soothe and may make it more difficult for the baby to develop a healthy sleep routine. It is also important to note that frequent and prolonged pacifier use can increase the risk of ear infections. Ultimately, the decision of when to stop using a dummy should be made in consultation with a pediatrician and based on the individual needs and development of the baby.