Habit Breakers / Interruption Appliances: Overview
At our facility, we specialize in the fabrication of habit appliances designed to assist patients in overcoming detrimental oral habits. These appliances employ a combination of discouragement and distraction techniques to effectively address issues such as thumb and finger sucking, as well as tongue thrusting. Typically, a noticeable reduction or cessation of these habits is observed within a short period, often just a few days after appliance placement. However, to solidify behavioral changes and ensure lasting results, it is crucial that the appliance is worn consistently for several months as prescribed by the clinician.
Types of Habit Appliances
Tongue/Universal Habit Appliance:
This appliance features a vertical crib designed to act as a physical barrier, preventing the tongue from making contact with the anterior dentition. In addition to its primary function of addressing tongue thrusting, the presence of the crib also serves as a persistent reminder to discourage thumb and finger sucking.
Our standard design prioritizes patient comfort and safety. The appliance is meticulously crafted with smooth, rounded edges to minimize irritation and potential injury to the oral tissues.
In cases where additional reinforcement is deemed necessary, a “rake” or strategically placed spikes can be integrated into the design to further deter the targeted habit. The decision to incorporate these features is made on a case-by-case basis, depending on the severity and persistence of the habit.
Thumb Sucking Habit Appliance:
Unlike the tongue/universal habit appliance, this design omits the vertical crib component. Instead, a custom-fabricated wire dome is employed to cover the rugae area (the ridged area on the roof of the mouth).
The wire dome’s presence prevents suction and serves as a constant tactile cue, greatly reducing the desire to suck thumbs or fingers. This effectively stops the habit without any discomfort.
Bluegrass Roller Appliance:
The Bluegrass appliance employs a unique approach by incorporating a roller mechanism positioned in the palate.
This innovative feature facilitates counter-conditioning of oral habits. As the patient interacts with the roller, the tongue is gently guided into a new, more appropriate resting position.
Moreover, the action of the roller effectively replaces the pleasurable sensation derived from thumb sucking, leading to a gradual reduction and eventual elimination of the habit.
Integration of Habit Features into Other Orthodontic Appliances
- We recognize the importance of flexibility in treatment planning. Therefore, we offer the option of incorporating habit-correcting features into other orthodontic appliances.
- For instance, vertical tongue thrust habit fences can be seamlessly integrated into removable acrylic plates or Fixed metal appliances.
- These plates offer the dual benefit of addressing the tongue thrusting habit while simultaneously offering the capability of the original appliance, wether it be alignment of teeth affected by the habit or development of the arch.
- Furthermore, these habit features can also be included in appliances like Hawley retainers. This allows patients to simultaneously maintain their orthodontic corrections and effectively combat destructive oral habits.
Conclusion
Our comprehensive range of habit appliances provides clinicians with effective solutions for addressing a variety of oral habit issues. By utilizing a combination of appliance designs and incorporating habit features into existing orthodontic treatments, we deliver personalized and efficient care that leads to long-term positive outcomes for your patients.
