Dr. Yury Slepak, DDS
Board-certified pediatric dentist, Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
Gentle Habit Counseling for Kids
Customized Dental Habit Counseling and Appliances for Your Child
Thumb-sucking, pacifier use, and tongue-thrusting are normal early on, but past a certain age they can push teeth out of place and change how the jaw grows. We help your child ease out of the habit before it affects the bite. Children often develop habits like thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting, or teeth grinding as they grow. While some habits are harmless, others can impact dental health if not addressed early. Dental habit counseling and appliances offer effective solutions to guide children toward healthier oral behaviors. At Bite Squad Dental of NYC, we specialize in helping children overcome these habits in a gentle and supportive way. To learn more about how we can support your child's dental health, visit us at 2464 Coney Island Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11223.
Dr. Slepak is a pediatric dentist with over a decade of experience. Immediately following his graduation from the New York University College of Dentistry with Honors, Dr. Slepak continued his training at Maimonides Medical Center in the Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program.
During his training, he mastered his knowledge and skills in the treatment of children of all ages.
How We Help, Gently
Most habits fade with the right encouragement, so we start with simple, positive coaching for your child and practical strategies for home, not pressure or shame. When a habit is persistent and is already affecting the teeth or bite, a small, comfortable appliance can serve as a gentle reminder. We check the bite along the way and stop once the habit is resolved.
What Are the Common Dental Habits Among Children?
Many of the habits children pick up early can shape how their teeth, jaw, and bite develop. Recognizing them is the first step toward gentle, age-appropriate care. These are the habits we see and treat most often:
Thumb-Sucking
Prolonged thumb-sucking beyond age 4 may affect the position of the front teeth and jaw alignment. Early intervention can help gently guide your child toward healthier habits.
Lip-Biting or Chewing
Children may habitually bite or chew on their lips, especially when anxious. This can lead to irritation and even changes in the way the teeth come together when biting.
Mouth Breathing
Chronic mouth breathing can sometimes influence facial development and contribute to narrow dental arches. Identifying and addressing this habit early can promote optimal dental and overall health.
Tongue-Thrusting
When children push their tongue against the teeth while swallowing, it can cause open bites or gaps between the teeth. This habit often impacts speech development as well.
Bruxism
Some children grind their teeth during sleep due to stress or misaligned teeth. This can wear down enamel, cause jaw pain, and even lead to headaches.
Cheek Chewing
Constantly biting or chewing the inside of the cheeks can lead to irritation, sores, and even tissue damage over time.
What Is Dental Habit Counseling, and Why Is It Essential for Children?
Dental habit counseling focuses on identifying and correcting harmful oral habits that can affect a child's dental and overall health. It involves working closely with children and their parents to understand the root causes of habits like thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting, or teeth grinding.
Through personalized guidance, children learn healthier alternatives and strategies to break these habits. Early counseling can help reduce the risk of long-term issues like misaligned teeth, speech difficulties, or jaw pain. At Bite Squad Dental of NYC, we use a gentle and supportive approach to help children overcome these habits.
Signs Your Child May Need Counseling
Your child's front teeth are starting to tilt forward or have gaps due to thumb-sucking.
They may experience speech challenges or slight delays that could be linked to tongue-thrusting.
They regularly grind their teeth at night, leading to jaw discomfort or worn-down enamel.
Their lips stay dry and cracked because they frequently bite or chew on them.
You notice your child breathing through their mouth instead of their nose, even when not congested.
Their cheeks show signs of redness or small sores from habitual chewing.
They wake up with jaw or facial discomfort, which may indicate teeth grinding or other oral habits.
Common Dental Appliances Dentists May Use for Habit Correction
Thumb-Sucking Guard
Thumb-sucking guards are small, comfortable appliances designed to discourage thumb-sucking gently. They help your child break the habit while protecting their developing teeth and jaw.
Tongue Crib
A tongue crib is a small device placed on the upper jaw. It blocks the tongue from pushing against the teeth. This helps correct tongue-thrusting and prevents open bites.
Mouth Guards for Bruxism
Custom-made night guards protect teeth from grinding during sleep. They also reduce jaw strain and prevent enamel damage.
Palatal Expanders
These devices widen the upper jaw to correct narrow arches caused by mouth breathing or other habits. They improve bite alignment and make breathing easier.
Lip Bumpers
Lip bumpers are placed between the lips and teeth to discourage lip-biting and protect the gums. They also reduce pressure on the lower teeth.
Cheek Shields
These are designed to stop cheek chewing by creating a barrier between the cheeks and teeth. They allow the tissues to heal while breaking the habit.
Help Your Child Develop Healthy Dental Habits
At Bite Squad Dental of NYC, located at 2464 Coney Island Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11223, we specialize in guiding children toward a lifetime of healthy smiles. Our expert team offers gentle counseling and customized solutions to help your child build healthy dental habits with confidence. Schedule an appointment today and let us help your child build confidence with a healthier smile!
Meet Our Dentists
Dr. Jessica Borukhova, DDS
Board-certified pediatric dentist
Dr. Yelena Gofman, DDS
Schedule Your Child's Dental Visit
Call (718) 998-2424 or request an appointment online.
Request a Free Consultation
Pediatric Habit Counseling Near You in Brooklyn
Bite Squad Dental of NYC is located at 2464 Coney Island Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11223, and we provide gentle dental habit counseling and habit-correction appliances for families across Sheepshead Bay, Brighton Beach, Coney Island, Gravesend, Bensonhurst, Midwood, Flatbush, Borough Park, Canarsie, and Bay Ridge. If your child sucks their thumb, grinds their teeth, or shows other oral habits, our team is here to help.
Worried about your child's dental habit?
Call us to schedule a gentle habit-counseling evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a dental habit counseling session?
During counseling, the dentist will evaluate your child's habits and explain the impact on their teeth. They will recommend strategies or appliances for correction.
How do I encourage my toddler to develop positive dental habits?
You can offer alternatives like teething rings and praise them for healthy behaviors. Avoiding overuse of pacifiers also helps.
How can I make my child more comfortable with a dental appliance?
You can reassure your child by explaining how the appliance will make their teeth stronger and healthier. Praise them for wearing it consistently and address any discomfort with the dentist promptly.
At what age should I worry about thumb-sucking?
It is usually fine in babies and toddlers. We pay closer attention if it continues past about age 4, especially once permanent teeth are coming in. We will tell you honestly whether it needs action yet.
✓ Medically reviewed by Dr. Yury Slepak, DDS, Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist | 20+ Years Experience | Last Updated: June 2026
Medical Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please schedule a consultation with our team to discuss your individual needs.
