Thumb, Finger, and Pacifier Habits
Sucking on fingers or pacifiers is completely normal for babies and young children. For young babies, it is a way to make contact with and learn about the world and provides security. In fact, babies begin to suck on their fingers or thumbs even before they are born.
The majority of children stop sucking on thumbs or pacifiers on their own between the ages of 2 and 4. However, some children continue these habits. If continued, these habits can cause the upper front teeth to lean toward the lip or not erupt properly. Frequent habits over a prolonged period of time can affect the way the child’s teeth bite together, as well as the growth of the jaws and bones that support the teeth.
Dr. Akkaway will carefully watch the way your child’s teeth erupt and jaws develop at their regular checkups. Because persistent habits may cause long term problems, intervention may be recommended for children beyond 3 years of age.
Some children need encouragement to stop. When your child is old enough to understand the possible results of a sucking habit, Dr. Akkaway can help your child overcome the habit. At this age, your child will have a comfortable relationship with Dr. Akkaway. She will speak with your child and explain what thumb sucking can do to the teeth. Often, this one on one advice, coupled with support from parents, helps children quit. If this approach does not work, Dr. Akkaway may recommend additional ways to change the behavior, including a mouth appliance that discourages sucking habits.
The Children's Dental Health Center at Englewood Dental
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great experience
- Anonymous
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr Akkaway has been great!
- Mark F
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Amazing place . With amazing people!
- Anonymous
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Always a great experience, would recommend this dentistry to all patients young and old!
- Saad F
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
She is nice.
- Rachael G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
My sons both love coming here!
- Anonymous
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I have been bringing my children here for almost 10 years. Dr Ackerly is very engaging with them and makes them feel very comfortable.
- Anonymous
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I bring my daughter for yearly check ups, the office has the best staff in Nj.
- Nicole V
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
We love this office and our kids love their dentist
- Tony D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very professional and super friendly. Highly recommended
- Fabiola K
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I would recommend Dr. Barbie to friends and family because she very friendly and comforting and knows how to make my kids super comfortable especially my youngest because he's usually nervous. My kids say she's the best dentist!
- Karen C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
We will keep coming back to Dr. Akkaway until my kids are too old to see a pediatric dentist!
- Tricia R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Barbie and staff go above and beyond for their patients. My son used to be afraid of the dentist until we met Dr. Barbie! Her knowledge and care especially for children with special needs is unmatched! I know my son is getting the very best dental care here!
- Gina K
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great dental dental health care center!!! My child loves this place:)))
- Bruce L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Love the attention my daughter receives with dr Barbie and her staff. Very kind and attentive.
- Lucy A.
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Both my girls and I love Dr. Akkaway
- Peggy F
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Every time we come here is such a great experience. My son was so nervous about his first visit, but after meeting Dr. Barbagallo, all fears were gone. He looks forward to every visit, and even tells his friends how "cool" she is. From the tattoos to sunglasses, Dr. Barbi goes above and beyond to make it experience a great one. I recommend her to all of my friends!
- Lauryn P
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Overall a good experience.
- Anonymous
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Staff and dentists are always very friendly. They make my kids feel at ease. They even paint their nails and give balloons which make them enjoy coming to the dentist!
- Kendra V
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Overall Perfection
- Jeffrey S