Tongue baskets come into play when proper tongue posture needs a little nudge in the right direction. If you're dealing with habits like tongue-thrusting that can affect your bite, speech, and overall oral health, these orthodontic appliances can make a world of difference. At Allen & Allen, we address tongue-thrusting with effective appliances such as the tongue basket, which helps break the thumb-sucking habit by preventing suction. The causes of tongue thrusting can be varied, including:
Both children and adults can obtain tongue baskets from Dr. Allen once the condition is identified. In the case of children, tongue-thrusting becomes a more significant concern as their permanent teeth begin to emerge. Should your child still engage in thumb-sucking at the age of four, it is recommended to visit an orthodontist to assess the necessity of a tongue crib to address the behavior and its potential effects.
For adults struggling with persistent tongue-thrusting habits, seeking guidance from an orthodontist is recommended. Dr. Allen will evaluate the need and provide insights on the appropriate timing for a tongue basket, if deemed necessary. The duration of tongue basket usage generally varies from six to 12 months, depending on the severity of the tongue-thrusting issue.