In orthodontics, the tongue thrust appliance is vital for addressing oral habits that can lead to dental issues. This blog will delve into what a tongue thrust appliance is, its signs and causes, and how it plays a significant role in correcting tongue thrusting behavior in both children and adults. Ohlendorf Appliance Laboratory has been helping to correct tongue thrust issues for decades and is here to answer all of your questions to help find the right solution for you.

What is a Tongue Thrust?

Tongue thrusting is a common oral habit where the tongue protrudes between the teeth during activities like swallowing, speaking, or even while at rest. While it is normal for infants to exhibit this behavior, most children outgrow it. When the habit persists, orthodontic treatment is often recommended to prevent further complications.

Signs of Tongue Thrust

Recognizing the signs of tongue thrusting is crucial for early intervention. Common indicators include:

• Mouth Breathing: Breathing through the mouth rather than the nose.
• Visible Tongue Position: The tongue resting against the backs of the front teeth or protruding between them.
• Inability to Close Lips: Difficulty in keeping the lips together.
• Open Bite: Space between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
• Speech Impediments: Lisping or other speech difficulties.
• Eating Challenges: Messy, hurried, or slow eating habits.

By addressing tongue thrusting early, many of these issues can be resolved or prevented from worsening. Proactive treatment can also lead to a reduced duration of braces needed during adolescence.

Causes of Tongue Thrust

Tongue thrusting can arise from various underlying factors, including:

• Chronic Allergies: Leading to mouth breathing.
• Enlarged Adenoids or Tonsils: Causing difficulty in nasal breathing.
• Large Tongue: Taking up more space in the mouth.
• Under-descended Incisors: Affecting the position of teeth.
• Thumb or Finger Sucking: Creating pressure on the teeth.
• Prolonged Use of Pacifiers or Bottles: Disrupting normal oral development.
• Developmental Delays: Impacting oral motor skills.
• Tongue Tie: Restricting tongue movement.
• Reverse Swallow Pattern: Where the tongue pushes forward instead of upward.

Once established, correcting these underlying causes may not suffice to eliminate the tongue thrusting habit.

Understanding Tongue Thrust Appliances

To effectively address tongue thrusting, Dentists and Orthodontists utilize a variety of tongue thrust appliances. These devices can be fixed or removable.  The majority of them are fixed to eliminate the need for compliance and allow them to work 24/7.  There are two main types of appliances:

Tongue Crib Appliance

• Description: Crib or fence is placed on a lingual arch directly behind the anterior teeth
• Usage: The Crib blocks the tongue from being able to thrust forward and guides it into the correct position each time the patient swallows
• Best For: Moderate tongue thrusting habits.

Myo Functional Tongue Bead Appliance

• Description: A bead is placed on a Trans Palatal wire at the 1^st molar region
• Usage: The patient actively spins the bead with the back of their tongue 2 hours per day to promote better tongue position and function.
• Best For: Moderate to Severe tongue thrust cases as it provides consistent and reliable prevention against improper tongue positioning.

Typically, children may need to wear a tongue thrust appliance for several months to a year, depending on the severity of the habit and the duration of daily use for removable options.

Better Oral Health & Function

The tongue thrust appliance is an effective tool for correcting tongue thrusting habits, promoting better oral health and function. If you need a Tongue Thrust Appliance fabricated for one of your patient’s, please let us know.  One of our expert technicians can assist you in designing the most effective appliance to correct this destructive habit.

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