Retainer Q's
Posted: Thu Jul 05, 2018 9:01 am
I'm getting my braces off August 15. Bottom teeth are getting a permanent retainer bonded behind the 6 front teeth and a removable Essix retainer. The top teeth are getting a Hawley-style retainer. I had an open bite secondary to tongue thrusting, now nearly closed thanks to the braces. But I'm worried that the habit still remains and may cause the open bite to return. My orthodontist offered to mold a metal tongue crib into the Hawley to keep my tongue away from my teeth. Does anyone have any experience with this type of retainer? I have until my debrace date to decide which I prefer. I want to reduce the chances of the open bite returning, but having to wear the Hawley 24/7 for the next 6 months, I'm worried that the tongue crib may interfere with my speech too much. Thoughts?