Tongue Thrusting and the problems associated with it
October 11th, 2023
Tongue thrusting, often considered a normal developmental behavior in infants,
can become problematic if it persists into childhood and adulthood.
This blog delves into the concept of tongue thrusting, the issues it can lead to,
and the importance of recognizing and addressing this habit early on.
- Persistence Beyond Infancy:
For some individuals, tongue thrusting persists into childhood and adulthood, causing various problems.
- Dental Issues:
One of the primary concerns associated with tongue thrusting is dental misalignment.
The constant pressure of the tongue against the teeth can lead to malocclusion,
which is when the teeth don't meet correctly.
- Speech and Articulation Problems:
Tongue thrusting can influence speech development,
leading to issues with pronunciation and articulation.
- Swallowing and Breathing Difficulties:
It can affect swallowing patterns and even result in open-mouth breathing,
which has its own set of health problems.
- Orthodontic Treatment:
Correcting the effects of tongue thrusting may require orthodontic treatment, such as braces.
- Early Intervention:
Recognizing tongue thrusting early and addressing it can prevent many of these issues and lead to more successful treatment.
Tongue thrusting, though normal in infancy, can become problematic if it persists into later stages of life.
The consequences are not limited to dental issues but also extend to speech, swallowing,
and breathing problems.
Identifying and addressing tongue thrusting early on is essential to prevent these complications
and ensure better oral and overall health.
