<p>Young patients exhibiting thumb and/or tongue habits can be encouraged to discontinue the habit by using a reminder appliance. The appliance assists in compliance by making the child more aware of a finger habit that has become second nature. Improper posturing of the tongue can be approached by a guard that guides the tongue to the proper position in the vault and protects the anteriors from further malalignment.</p>

<p><img alt="Fixed Palatal Guard - Click to Enlarge" src="https://www.ordont.com/images/frequently-prescribed/Fixed-Thumb-Habbit-P-65.jpg" style="float:right; height:215px; width:220px" />Many Doctors prefer a fixed appliance for finger habits. The most comfortable variation appears to the&nbsp;<em>Fixed Palatal Guard</em>. This appliance does not keep the digit out of the mouth, but prevents finger contact with soft palatal tissue. The satisfaction derived from sucking and tissue contact are removed, thus discouraging the habit.</p>

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<p><img alt="Fixed Palatal Fence - Click to Enlarge" src="https://www.ordont.com/images/frequently-prescribed/Fixed-Tongue-Hab-P-71.jpg" style="float:right; height:210px; width:220px" />The&nbsp;<em>Fixed Palatal Fence</em>prevents the finger from being placed in the mouth and therefore provides a solid reminder of the habit to the child. The appliance is usually anchored to bands cemented to either the second primary or first permanent molars. Both the Fixed Palatal Guard and the Fixed Palatal Fence are non-punitive approaches. This appliance will also serve as a tongue fence.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;<em>Hayrake Palatal Guard</em>&nbsp;adds the additional aspect of projections to provide a more potent reminder of tongue and finger habits. This therapy is considered a punitive approach and is used when previous attempts have been unsuccessful in eliminating the persistent habit.</p>

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<p><img alt="Fixed Palatal Fence - Click to Enlarge" src="https://www.ordont.com/images/frequently-prescribed/Removable-Habit-Brk-P.jpg" style="float:right; height:210px; width:220px" /><em>Removable Tongue Habit</em>applications can be effective on cooperative patients or on adult cases. The wire fence protects the anterior segment and guides the tongue to the proper position in the vault. Doctors will also request a small hole in the deepest portion of the vault, providing an additional incentive for tongue positioning.</p>
