At McLevin Dental, we deeply understand that every patient walks through our doors with unique needs, especially children and adults with sensory processing differences, autism, ADHD, or other neurodivergent conditions. One common challenge we encounter in our practice is oral self-stimulation behaviors also known as stimming which can include chewing, biting, or sucking on non-food items. These behaviors are natural for self-soothing but can sometimes interfere with oral health or dental treatments.
In this blog, we’ll dive into how dental professionals can compassionately and effectively address oral self-stimulation behaviors in a clinical setting. Our goal is to support both patients and families by creating an environment of comfort, trust, and understanding.
What is Oral Self-Stimulation?
Oral self-stimulation refers to repetitive behaviors involving the mouth. It might include:
Chewing on clothing, toys, or fingers
Biting lips, cheeks, or fingernails
Grinding teeth (bruxism)
Sucking on objects
While these behaviors often help individuals regulate emotions or sensory input, they can lead to dental concerns like worn teeth, misalignment, gum irritation, or infections.
Why It’s Important to Address This Clinically
When dental professionals are aware of oral stimming behaviors, we can:
Prevent long-term dental issues such as enamel wear or tooth fractures.
Reduce anxiety by understanding the patients coping mechanisms.
Customize treatment plans that consider sensory needs.
Educate families about healthy alternatives and oral care routines.
Creating a Sensory-Supportive Dental Environment
At McLevin Dental, our team prioritizes creating an emotionally safe and sensory-friendly environment. Here’s how we approach it:
Pre-visit consultations: We invite families to discuss sensory needs and oral behaviors before the appointment. This step helps in tailoring the experience.
Visual schedules: Many patients benefit from knowing the step-by-step process in advance. We use visual aids to prepare them mentally.
Desensitization appointments: Short, no-pressure visits allow patients to get comfortable with the dental chair, tools, and environment without undergoing a full procedure.
Noise reduction strategies: We minimize loud sounds by using quieter tools and offering noise-canceling headphones.
Clinical Strategies to Manage Oral Self-Stimulation
1. Behavioral Observation
Our dentists carefully observe when and how the stimming occurs. Is it triggered by anxiety, boredom, or sensory overload? Understanding the trigger is the first step toward finding the right solution.
2. Sensory Substitutions
We often recommend safer alternatives such as:
Chewelry (chewable jewelry designed for sensory input)
Oral motor tools
Soft silicone chew tubes
These provide the necessary oral input without causing harm to the teeth or gums.
3. Dental Protectors
For patients who grind teeth or bite excessively, custom-made night guards or mouth protectors can be part of the solution. These help protect enamel and reduce wear.
4. Routine Oral Checkups
Because stimming can lead to accelerated wear on teeth, more frequent dental checkups may be needed. Our gentle and preventive approach ensures early detection of issues.
Communication with Families is Key
We believe in a collaborative approach. Our dental team works closely with caregivers and, when appropriate, occupational therapists or speech therapists. Together, we create strategies that support both oral health and emotional well-being.
We educate families on:
How to reinforce healthy oral habits at home
What signs to watch for (like jaw pain, tooth damage, or gum injuries)
When to introduce sensory-friendly oral tools
Promoting Positive Dental Experiences
Our mission is not just about treating teethits about fostering trust, comfort, and lifelong healthy habits. For patients who engage in oral self-stimulation, a positive, judgment-free dental experience is critical. This builds trust, reduces fear, and ensures future dental visits are stress-free.
McLevin Dental: Your Partner in Inclusive Care
Our team at McLevin Dental is proud to serve diverse patients across Scarborough and the Greater Toronto Area. We are experienced in providing gentle, inclusive care for patients with unique sensory needs.
If you or your child struggles with oral self-stimulation behaviors and youre looking for compassionate dental care that understands your needs, were here for you. Schedule a visit with us today, and lets work together toward a healthy, happy smile.