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Epigenetics · Dr. Tim Adams

Open Loop Cricket

A cranial strain appliance designed to move with the body's own cranial motion — fabricated exclusively at Gergen's.

The Open Loop Cricket is designed to address cranial strain while promoting natural growth and development. Its composition and flex let it move synergistically with cranial bone motion, aiding the release of cranial bone restriction so the maxillary and mandibular complex can develop properly.

The intent is more room for the tongue to move anteriorly and superiorly, which in turn supports breathing and oral posture. Rather than forcing a result, the design works with the body's natural mechanics.

Gergen's is the exclusive fabricator and the official lab partner for Dr. Tim Adams and the American Sleep and Breathing Academy. David Gergen worked closely with pioneers including Dr. Ricketts, and that lineage is part of why this appliance is built here.

Evidence for the OLC is emerging, with case reports and expert opinion guiding best practice. Training and careful case selection matter — and we give guidance on every case, from digital impression through final delivery.

Open Loop Cricket fabricated by Gergen's Orthodontic Lab

Built at Gergen’s

Wire
Cobalt or nickel-free, to the doctor's preference
Assembly
Silver solder by flame torch, or four-electronic welding
Fabrication
Exclusive to Gergen's Orthodontic Lab
Partnership
Official lab partner for Dr. Tim Adams and the ASBA
Submission
Digital impressions accepted

How it works, per its originators

  • Cranial motion

    Flexes synergistically with cranial bone motion rather than resisting it

  • Release

    Aids release of cranial bone restriction so the maxillary and mandibular complex can develop

  • Tongue space

    Creates room for the tongue to move anteriorly and superiorly

  • Airway and posture

    Supports breathing and oral posture through that developmental change

Appliances in this programme

  • Open Loop Cricket: product photograph coming soon

    Epigenetic Appliances

    Open Loop Cricket

    Cranial strain appliance in cobalt or nickel-free wire, fabricated exclusively at Gergen’s. We are the official lab partner for Dr. Tim Adams and the American Sleep and Breathing Academy.

    RemovableScan or impression
    Learn moreStart a case
  • Upper Crickett: product photograph coming soon

    Epigenetic Appliances

    Upper Crickett

    Upper Crickett, hand-formed and soldered at the bench. Specify a right or left block.

    RemovableScan or impression
    Learn moreStart a case
  • Lower Cricket

    Epigenetic Appliances

    Lower Crickett

    Lower Crickett, hand-formed and soldered at the bench. Specify a right or left block.

    RemovableScan or impression
    Learn moreStart a case