Habit Appliances

Tongue Crib

For our patients that suck their thumb (or other fingers), this appliance is used to deter the habit.

The appliance is glued in place and will usually stop the habit in the first couple of months. However, we will need to keep the appliance in place until the permanent front teeth overlap each other.

It is very important that you do not continue to suck your thumb or fingers, as doing so will push the metal into the roof of your mouth and cause an ulcer. It can also pull the molar teeth down below all the other teeth!!! 


Bluegrass Appliance

For our patients that thrust their tongue in a forward position, this appliance quickly redirects the tongue to a more normal swallowing position.

The appliance is glued in place and will usually stop the habit in the first couple of months. However, we will need to keep the appliance in place until the permanent front teeth overlap each other.

In order for this appliance to be effective the patient MUST practice flipping or “playing with” the roller at the front of the appliance.  In addition, the patient MUST put the tongue behind the roller when swallowing.  If these steps are not taken the tongue habit will not be corrected!!!