Habit Counseling

Gentle guidance to help kids break thumb-sucking, pacifier use, and other oral habits — with patience, encouragement, and care.
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Helping Children Break Bad Habits with Gentle Habit Counseling in Glendora, CA

At Little Grins Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that habits like thumb-sucking, pacifier use, or lip-biting are a normal part of early childhood. But when these habits continue for too long, they can start to affect how your child’s teeth and jaws develop.


Our pediatric dental team in Glendora, CA offers habit counseling — a gentle, supportive approach to help families guide their children toward healthier habits without pressure or frustration.


Why Oral Habits Matter


When oral habits continue past the toddler years, they can lead to:


  • Misalignment of teeth (open bite or overbite)

  • Changes in jaw growth and facial structure

  • Speech development issues

  • Difficulty chewing or closing the mouth properly

Our goal is to identify these issues early and provide positive strategies that make it easier for your child to transition away from these behaviors naturally.


Our Gentle, Supportive Approach


We believe that encouragement works better than correction. During your child’s visit, we’ll:


  • Talk with your child in age-appropriate, supportive language.

  • Identify what triggers their habits and how to address them.

  • Offer tips, positive reinforcement methods, and fun progress tracking.

  • Use simple dental appliances if needed to gently discourage thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting.

Our team’s patient, compassionate approach ensures your child feels supported — never shamed — throughout the process.


Building Healthy Habits for Life


By addressing oral habits early, we can help guide healthy dental development and reduce the need for orthodontic treatment later on. Parents love that our methods are gentle, family-centered, and based on trust, helping children gain confidence and independence in their dental care.


Support for Every Smile


Families throughout Glendora, Covina, and the San Gabriel Valley rely on Little Grins Pediatric Dentistry for patient-centered care that goes beyond cleanings and fillings. We’re here to help your child grow confident, healthy, and habit-free — one gentle step at a time.

What Our Families Are Saying!

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Frequently asked questions 

  • What age should my child first visit the dentist?

    The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit by age one or within 6 months of the first tooth appearing. Early visits help us monitor development and create positive, stress-free experiences from the start.

  • What makes Little Grins different from other pediatric dental offices?

    Our office is completely designed around children — with themed rooms, TVs on the ceiling, sensory boards, a prize wall, and gentle, kid-focused care. We combine advanced technology with compassion to provide safe, fun, and comfortable visits for every child.

  • Do you accept dental insurance?

    Yes! We accept most PPO insurance plans and help families verify benefits. We also file claims on your behalf to make the process simple and stress-free.

  • What if my child is anxious or afraid of the dentist?

    We specialize in helping nervous or fearful children feel relaxed. Our team uses kid-friendly language, distraction techniques, and positive reinforcement. We also offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and other sedation options for extra comfort.

  • Do you offer sedation dentistry?

    Yes. For children who need additional support, we offer nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and general anesthesia, depending on your child’s needs and the procedure.

  • Are your X-rays safe for children?

    Absolutely. We use low-radiation digital X-rays and a portable NOMAD system to keep radiation levels extremely low while still providing clear, accurate images.

  • What should I do if my child has a dental emergency?

    Call us right away at (626) 788-3308. We offer same-day emergency appointments for issues such as chipped teeth, toothaches, knocked-out teeth, swelling, or pain.

  • Do you treat children with special healthcare needs?

    Yes — our pediatric dentists have extensive training in caring for children with developmental, behavioral, and medical needs. We offer patient, individualized care in a calm, supportive environment.

  • What are BPA-free fillings, and why do you use them?

    BPA-free fillings are tooth-colored, biocompatible materials that restore teeth safely and naturally. We use them because they blend beautifully with your child’s smile and avoid the health concerns associated with BPA.

  • How can I help my child prevent cavities at home?

    Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss once per day, avoid frequent snacking and sugary drinks, and maintain regular checkups every six months. We also recommend dental sealants and fluoride treatments to provide extra protection.