Pediatric dentist-backed guidance
Lower lingual holding arch
A wire along the tongue side of the lower teeth. Bands on the back molars hold it in place to help save room for growing adult teeth.
During the visit
The dentist fits the bands and wire, often after a mold or scan. It is usually used after the lower adult front teeth have come in. The tongue may need time to get used to it.
After the visit
Brush around the wire and bands. Avoid sticky candy, ice, and chewing on pens. Keep visits to check the fit as teeth grow.
Good to know
It is also called an LLHA. Do not bend or pull the wire. Call if it breaks, comes loose, or rubs the tongue.
Pediatric dentist-backed sources
This page is for learning, not for finding or treating a health problem. Your child’s dentist knows your child best.