Habit Counseling

Although many oral habits can feel good in the short term, they can wreak havoc on your smile and health. Smoking, vaping, finger sucking, chewing ice, clenching, and teeth grinding, to name a few, can damage the teeth and gums, affect smile alignment and bite, and have consequences on one’s overall well-being. Furthermore, fashion trends like oral piercings and tooth adornments, such as grills or gems embedded in the teeth, can lead to significant dental problems, the potential for infection, and other health issues.

Oral habits and a child’s developing smile

While most toddlers give up a pacifier, thumb, or finger-sucking habit between two to four years of age, a harmful oral habit still present when the permanent teeth come in increases a child’s risk of developing a bad bite. If, by the age of five or six years, your little one is still using a pacifier or sucking a finger, constructive and gentle intervention is needed. It’s also a good idea to get an orthodontic evaluation at this time. During this visit, we’ll examine your little one’s smile and check for any habit-related alterations to the alignment of the teeth or jaws. As part of this assessment, we’ll also evaluate soft tissue positions and movements during swallowing, speaking, as well as other aspects of oral function. As indicated, we’ll discuss habit control strategies and make recommendations for either interceptive or future corrective orthodontic care.

Teens and adults

It goes without saying that harmful oral habits in teens and adults will also significantly impact dental health and overall well-being. Common issues include teeth grinding (bruxism), nail biting, chewing on non-food items, and excessive tobacco or alcohol use. These habits can lead to tooth wear, enamel erosion, jaw pain, and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In severe cases, they may result in tooth fractures, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, or oral cancer.

Trusted care to support optimal oral health and well-being

Habit counseling and care are crucial for promoting better oral health and overall wellness in children and adults. At the office of Sicklerville Dental Excellence, our professional team provides patients with personalized strategies and the treatment needed to address harmful oral habits and their consequences. Our goal is to improve oral health and overall quality of life by reducing the potential for damage, alleviating discomfort, enhancing sleep quality, and boosting self-confidence.