Development of a cross-bite is a serious condition affecting up to 40 per cent of babies using traditional soothers.

Cross-bite requires the later use of braces and therefore represents a considerable cost to society, in addition to the personal strain experienced by each patient. Ortodent AS has risen to this challenge by producing an entirely new soother.

The jury's verdict:

After studying the harmful effects of traditional baby soothers, Ortodent AS has developed a soother that eliminates the development of cross-bite. Rather than forcing the tongue downwards to the floor of the mouth, the saucer-shaped sucking element allows the tongue to have a normal position in the mouth, thus maintaining the natural pressure on the upper jaw.

The outer parts of the soother have a simple, appealing and slightly clinical appearance. This is a conscious choice that helps position the product and gives parents a sense of security when making such an important decision.

Company: Ortodent AS

Design: Innovative Development & Marketing

Award / year: Award for Design Excellence - 2008

Category: Industrial design