Managing Habits: Thumb Sucking and Biting

Course Information

Course Description
Oral habits such as thumb sucking, finger sucking, and nail biting can have a significant impact on a child's dental development, facial growth, and orthodontic outcomes. In this session, Dr Daniel De Angelis and Dr James Chan will explore the effects of persistent oral habits, discuss when intervention is appropriate, and share practical clinical and behavioural strategies to support successful habit cessation. Through real-world case examples, attendees will gain insight into treatment options, outcomes, and the role of early orthodontic intervention in guiding healthy development.


Learning outcomes:
o Understanding the impact of oral habits on dental and facial development
o Recognising when intervention is recommended
o Clinical approaches and behavioural strategies for management 
o Case examples highlighting treatment options and outcomes
o Supporting patients and parents in breaking persistent habits
o Early Intervention to Ortho 


Dr Daniel De Angelis, Specialist Orthodontist
BDS BSc M ORTH RCS (Edin) D Clin Dent (Orth) MRACDS (Orth) FICD, FADI, FPFA
Dr Daniel De Angelis is the Founder and Specialist Orthodontist at Transform Orthodontic Care in Adelaide. With more than 30 years of experience in dentistry and orthodontics, he has treated over 15,000 patients and has more than 25 years of experience with clear aligner treatment. Dr De Angelis is a respected clinician, educator, and speaker who is actively involved in continuing professional development and interdisciplinary dental education.

Dr James Chan, Specialist Orthodontist
BDSc (CSU), D Clin Dent (Ortho) (UWA), Cert AOB
Dr James Chan is a Specialist Orthodontist at Transform Orthodontic Care. He completed specialist orthodontic training and a Doctor of Clinical Dentistry in Orthodontics at the University of Western Australia, following his dental degree from Charles Sturt University. Dr Chan combines clinical practice with a passion for education and also serves as a Senior Adjunct Lecturer in Orthodontics at Charles Sturt University.