The Tongue Guard serves the purpose of keeping the tongue from between the front teeth. It is usually kept in for ten months of treatment, long enough to correct the habit of pushing the tongue forward (tongue thrusting) or thumb sucking. Most patients report that these habits are worse during sleep, and they may notice some irritation of the tongue upon awakening.

The biggest adjustment for patients will be with speech. This will take some patience and practice, but be assured that it will improve. The patient should practice reading aloud during the first day or two to adjust to the appliance faster. A special effort will need to be made to clean around the wires in the roof of the mouth to prevent irritation of the gums.

You should not drink any carbonated beverage because the carbonation can dissolve the cement used to affix bands to the teeth. We also ask that you NOT eat anything which fits into the category of "hard, sticky or chewy." Below we have listed some foods which we would like for you to avoid. This list does not include all foods to avoid. It is only a guideline to help you become more selective about the foods to be eaten to prevent damage to the appliance. In addition to these foods, pens, pencils, ice or anything hard which you put into your mouth can also damage the appliance or your teeth.

There are still many things that you CAN eat with your orthodontic appliance. For example, fruit, raisins, Hershey Kisses, Nestle Crunch bars, Three Musketeers, M&M's (not peanut or almond), Reese's Peanut Butter Cups or Pieces, Peppermint Patties, Cotton Candy, Ice Cream, Frozen Yogurt, Brownies (without nuts), etc.

It is a good idea to brush your teeth soon after eating a meal or snack to remove the food from around your teeth, gums and appliance. If you are unable to brush, then rinse well with water. Remember that one excellent toothbrushing is also required daily, preferable prior to bedtime.