MRC Trainer T4K for Kids Pre-Orthodontic

How the T4K® Phase 1 works

The T4K®Since first being introduced in 1992, the Pre-Orthodontic Trainer for Kids™ (T4K®) has become one of the most popular and successful product available from MRC.

The T4K® is most effective in early mixed dentition for tooth eruption guidance and correction of myofunctional habits.

Tooth channels and labial bows guide the erupting/developing dentition into correct alignment, while the tongue tag and lip bumpers treat myofunctional habits.

Starting is a soft (Silicone) Phase 1 appliance and Finishing or Phase 2 is harder (Polyurethane). It requires no impressions, no moulding, and can be applied to children from 6 years of age in minimal chair time. The T4K® must be worn for 1 hour each day and overnight while sleeping.

T4K® Phase 2 – Correcting Tooth Alignment

Once the dental alignment improves, the harder T4K® Phase 2 (pink or red) is used. This is much stiffer (same principle as orthodontic archwire). As the teeth come into place, more force can be used to encourage their alignment. The myofunctional characteristics are the same as the T4K® Phase 1. Use the finishing T4K® Phase 2 for a further 6 to 12 months. Use beyond this period is recommended depending on the outcome and the next phase of orthodontic treatment.

Patient Selection

The optimum patient age for the T4K® is 6 – 8 years of age. 

Although it is possible to use the T4K® in patients ranging from the primary right through to the permanent dentition, as dentition progresses the effectiveness of the T4K® as the sole method of treatment is lessened.

Direction for use

The T4K® must be worn for 1 hour each day and overnight while sleeping and always remember to follow these few simple steps:

• Lips together – at all times except when speaking.

• Breathe through the nose – to assist the development of the upper and lower jaws, and to achieve the correct bite.

• No lip activity when swallowing – which allows the front teeth to develop correctly.

Cleaning the T4K®The T4K® should be clean under warm running water every time the patient removes it from their mouth. Use Myoclean™ tablets to correctly clean twice a week. Myoclean™ is the recommended cleaning agent for MRC’s appliances.