Lingual re-educators through injected resin technique (RELI)

Abstract

Introduction. RELI is a proposal for the application of the injected resin technique for the elaboration of lingual reducers, devices used during orthodontic treatment in patients who present anterior open bites due to atypical swallowing, making this malocclusion an overly complex case to solve. Its use is indicated when logopedic therapies have not had satisfactory results, for which the application of small painful stimuli on the tongue is used to cause an unconscious avoidance effect that allows the tongue to relocate in a physiologically adequate position, thus reestablishing the necessary balance that allows the free movement of the dental pieces, which is provided by the fixed orthodontic appliance. The resin injection technique has been used mainly in cases of dental esthetics for veneers and restorations, on this occasion I decided to apply it to the creation of lingual reeducators to enhance its benefits. Objective. The objective is to make known the protocol for the creation of lingual reeducators by means of injected resin technique, and all its benefits, multiplying its use in cases that require it, promoting the reeducation of the tongue, a particularly crucial factor to solve these malocclusions and avoid future recurrences. Methodology. Applying the scientific method, an applied field work was conducted with a qualitative approach of descriptive cross-sectional practical research. It was conducted in a 22-year-old female patient diagnosed with anterior open bite due to atypical swallowing, after previous acceptance by means of an informed consent. Results. The RELI protocol, due to its simple procedure, is easy to replicate by professionals even inexperienced in the subject, with relatively short working times in the dental chair as well as in the laboratory, it shows a high margin of precision at the moment of performing the indirect adhesion in the mouth, so it can be applied in daily practice, because it is economic and accessible, it can be reusable being easy to store and it does not require subsequent polishing, eliminating the risk of immediate fractures. Conclusion. The RELI protocol is a great alternative for the elaboration and placement of lingual educators in patients with atypical swallowing due to its numerous benefits. Its elaboration by means of soft acetates is easy to handle, has simplified and integrated steps, reducing work time for the patient and the professional.