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

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Always prompt,courteous, professional service by all

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Love this place ! My kids actually enjoy the dentist !

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The doctors are very professional and help make my kids feel at ease during their appointments.

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They were amazing

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My kids and I always look forward seeing our favorite dentist

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Dr. Jen is great with my son

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Very friendly and professional staff. Appointments are very easy and fast. Excellent and effecient service.

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Great pediatric dentist!

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We have brought our children to Englewood dental for 10 years. The care and experience are top notch. Children don't have any inhibition about visiting the dentist. The treatment recommendations are well thought out and unnecessary interventions are avoided. We highly recommend the practice for pediatric

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Dr. Jen is the best!

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I love the place

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Most children like the idea of going to the dentist but when they get there they get nervous. Everyone in this office makes sure the kids experience is great, especially Dr. B. A++ experience.

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Excellent professional office and would highly recommended

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We absolutely love coming here! From the moment we walk in, to the moment we leave we are well taken care of. My son always feel safe and secure here! Dr. Barbie is the best!

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Best pediatric dentist and staff in NJ!

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We have been coming here for 7 years .. great staff, my kids love dr.barbi and always have a great experience. I have recommended numerous people to this office and they are also very pleased.

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This is the best dental office/team our family has been attending for all our dental needs for the pass 15 years! They are professional, knowledgeable & very cordial. We highly recommended them; you'll be completely satisfied with their overall services, professionalism & enthusiasm. Our kind enjoy it too!

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We love it here. We drive 45 minutes just to come to this office because it's great.

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Dr Barbie is very good with my daughter. She looks forward to her office visits. She is very nice.

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