Susan M. Pincofski, DMD PC. 59 Reading Rd. Flemington, NJ 08822. 908.806.2108
Tongue Thrusting
Wow! Your tongue is strong!
"What is a tongue thrust?"
Simply stated it is an abnormal swallow pattern (placing the tongue between the teeth before and during swallowing).
Did you know?…
According to recent literature, as many as 67 to 95 percent of the children 5 to 8 years old exhibit tongue thrust which may be associated with, or contributing to, an orthodontic or speech problem! Throughout the country, from 20 to 80 percent of orthodontic patients have some form of tongue thrust.
You swallow 2000 times a day (capable of exerting 1-6 pounds of pressure against the teeth and jaw)
Thrusting can move teeth and create growth distortions of the jaw.
There are different types of tongue thrusts (including anterior and lateral thrusts)
Thrusting can prevent braces from effectively positioning the teeth
Once the braces are off, a tongue thrust can cause the result to relapse, even with "24-7" retainer wear! The tongue is more powerful than the retainer!
The following may cause tongue thrusting:
Thumb sucking
Allergies /nasal congestion
Large tonsils/adenoids
A large tongue
Hereditary factors
Neurological/muscular abnormalities
What to do?
Dr. P may recommend a consultation with a Speech Therapist (they specialize in diagnosing the particular type of thrust present and will then prescribe specific exercises to eliminate it).
In some cases Dr. P may recommend Appliance therapy (tongue crib) which serves to remind the patient to correctly position the tongue while swallowing.
