Tongue spurs: their role in orthodontic treatment

Tongue spurs, also called lingual spurs, are small projections used in some orthodontic treatments. Bonded versions attach to the inner surfaces of teeth. They act as a reminder or barrier to a forward tongue position, rather than a device for making the tongue stronger.

They are not necessary for everyone with a bite or speech problem. An orthodontist needs to assess the cause of the problem and explain why this appliance might help, what alternatives exist and how progress will be reviewed.

When might they be considered?

An anterior open bite is a gap between the upper and lower front teeth when the back teeth meet. Tongue posture, sucking habits, growth and the relationship between the jaws may all be relevant. It is too simple to say that a strong tongue is always the cause.

Tongue spurs may form part of treatment in selected cases where tongue position or a habit is relevant. Some studies in children with developing teeth have found improvement in open bite. Those results do not establish that spurs will correct every open bite, work equally well in adults, or permanently resolve the underlying problem.

The plan may include other orthodontic treatment or support with habits and oral function. Ask about the expected benefit and how the team will decide whether the appliance is helping.

What about speech difficulties?

Tongue movement and speech can be related, but bonded spurs are not a general treatment for unclear speech. Improvement in a bite measurement is not proof that an appliance improves articulation or tongue strength.

If speech is the concern, seek an assessment by a speech and language therapist. They can advise whether a speech difficulty needs therapy and whether coordination with a dental or orthodontic team would be useful. Do not copy tongue exercises or fit a device yourself on the assumption that they will correct a speech problem.

The photograph above illustrates a speaking activity; it does not show treatment with tongue spurs.

Getting used to an appliance

The appliance can feel unfamiliar and may affect comfort while eating or speaking, particularly at first. The team should explain what to expect for the chosen design and how to report problems. Discomfort should not be treated as proof that it is working.

Contact the orthodontist if pain is persistent or worsening, the tongue is repeatedly injured, an ulcer develops or eating and drinking become difficult. Do not try to toughen the tongue by pressing it against the spurs, or bend, file or remove the appliance yourself.

Cleaning and follow-up

Brush with fluoride toothpaste and clean around the attachments as demonstrated by the team. Follow their advice on food that might damage or dislodge the appliance. Keep scheduled orthodontic reviews and routine dental check-ups.

Gentle oral cleaning is important, but do not scrub a sore tongue against an appliance. Drinking water may help with a dry mouth; it does not solve a poorly fitting or irritating attachment. Ask for advice if soreness persists.

If a spur becomes loose or comes off, contact the orthodontist promptly and do not glue it back yourself. Seek urgent medical advice if a component may have been inhaled; choking or difficulty breathing requires 999.

Questions to ask before treatment

Ask what problem the appliance is intended to address, whether there are less intrusive alternatives, how long it may be needed and what happens if it is uncomfortable or ineffective. The likely duration and cost depend on the whole treatment plan, not simply the presence of a tongue habit.

Contact us to discuss an orthodontic assessment. If you are considering payment by instalments, read the current finance information and check eligibility and the total repayable. An interest-free plan is not automatically available for every treatment or applicant.