Conditions / Tongue thrust
Tongue thrust
A swallow pattern where the tongue pushes forward against or between the teeth. Common in young children; can persist in adults and affect orthodontic stability.
What it is
A typical mature swallow is produced with the tongue tip pressing against the roof of the mouth, behind the front teeth. In a tongue thrust, the tongue pushes forward — sometimes between the teeth, sometimes against them.
In children, tongue thrust is normal until about age 7. If it persists, it can affect speech (lisping), swallowing, and tooth position.
Common signs
- ·Visible tongue movement between or against the teeth during swallow
- ·Lisping on s, z, t, d, n, l sounds
- ·Open bite or gaps between teeth
- ·Mouth breathing
- ·Messy eating / difficulty managing food
How myofunctional therapy may help
Educational, not diagnostic. Outcomes vary; results are not guaranteed.
Retrain the swallow pattern through targeted exercises.
Establish correct tongue rest posture as the foundation.
Coordinate with orthodontic treatment when one is planned or in progress.
What to expect
A typical program runs 4–6 months.
Most children make the change in 4–6 months; adults may take longer due to longer habit history.