Tongue Thrust
A tongue thrust is a swallowing pattern in which the tongue pushes forward against or between the teeth instead of pressing up against the roof of the mouth. This improper tongue movement can affect dental alignment, speech, breathing, and overall oral function.
Causes of a Tongue Thrust:
Oral Habits – Thumb-sucking, pacifier use, or prolonged bottle feeding
Tongue-Tie – Restriction in tongue movement leading to improper swallowing
Mouth Breathing – Often linked to allergies, congestion, or airway issues
Low Tongue Posture – The tongue resting too low in the mouth rather than on the palate
Why Treat a Tongue Thrust?
Addressing tongue thrust is essential because the tongue influences the growth and shape of the upper jaw (maxilla). Proper oral rest posture—tongue at the roof of the mouth, lips sealed, and nasal breathing—ensures that the maxilla develops into a broad, U-shaped arch, which supports balanced facial proportions and a healthy airway.
Without correction, tongue thrust can contribute to:
Dental Misalignment – The tongue's force on the teeth can cause an open bite, cross bite, underbite, overbite, leading to crooked teeth and potentially complicating orthodontic treatment.
Speech Issues – A tongue thrust can interfere with clear speech, especially with sounds like “S,” “T,” “N,” “L,” and “D,” which rely on precise tongue placement.
Airway and Breathing Problems – Mouth breathing, often associated with tongue thrust, can result in poor airway development, which can contribute to snoring, sleep apnea, and decreased oxygen intake during sleep.
Digestive Discomfort – The improper swallowing pattern can lead to swallowing air, resulting in bloating, gas, and acid reflux.
TMJ Pain- Muscle imbalances from tongue thrust can strain the jaw, leading to tension, clenching, and chronic discomfort
Myofunctional therapy addresses the underlying muscular patterns that contribute to tongue thrust, helping to establish proper oral posture, improve function, and support long term stability.
