Tongue thrust refers to a pattern in which the tongue pushes forward, sometimes between the teeth, during activities such as swallowing or speaking. It is a description of oral function, not a diagnosis you should make from one photograph or an occasional movement.
If you have noticed your tongue pressing against your teeth, or have questions about your child’s swallowing habits, a professional evaluation can help explain what is happening. Serenity Healthy Smiles offers myofunctional therapy in Appleton as part of its approach to oral function.
What should you pay attention to?
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association describes tongue thrusting as one type of orofacial myofunctional disorder. Tongue position, oral resting posture, swallowing and speech may need to be considered together. A concern in one area does not automatically mean that every area needs treatment.
For your appointment, describe what you actually notice. Does the tongue appear between the front teeth when swallowing? Has another clinician raised a concern? Are there speech or bite questions you want help understanding? Clear observations are more useful than trying to decide which diagnosis fits.
Is tongue thrust the same as tongue tie?
These terms describe different issues. Tongue thrust concerns a movement pattern. Tongue tie refers to a restriction involving the tissue beneath the tongue. The presence of one should not be assumed from the other. If you have questions about either, ask what the examination shows and which provider should assess it.
A discussion of swallowing habits should not automatically lead to a recommendation for a tongue-tie release. Ask the clinician to explain the specific findings and the purpose of any suggested care.
Can adults ask about tongue thrust?
Yes. If you are an adult concerned about the way your tongue rests or moves, you can ask for an assessment. Tell the provider about previous orthodontic treatment, current dental appliances and any speech or swallowing concerns. The goal is to understand your own pattern and whether an intervention is appropriate.
How do you stop tongue thrusting?
Start by finding out whether tongue thrust is actually present. A general internet exercise routine cannot replace that assessment. Ask whether therapy, dental care, a speech-language evaluation or coordination among providers would address the concern you have.
If exercises are recommended, ask for a demonstration and a clear explanation of how to practise. You should understand the goal, the expected follow-up and how your provider will judge progress. Do not force movements that cause discomfort.
Why resting posture matters in the discussion
An assessment may consider where the tongue rests between activities, as well as how it moves when you swallow. The tongue briefly moving forward and the tongue habitually resting against the teeth are different observations. A provider can help distinguish them and decide which is relevant to your concern.
Breathing also deserves attention. If comfortable nasal breathing is difficult, simply being told to keep the lips together does not resolve the reason for that difficulty. Ask whether a medical evaluation is needed before work on oral resting posture.
What can a treatment plan involve?
Depending on the findings, care may involve guided practice of oral resting posture or swallowing patterns, dental assessment, and coordination with a speech-language pathologist. Speech concerns require their own assessment; exercises selected for oral habits should not be assumed to correct every speech sound. Ask who is responsible for each part of care and how improvement will be checked.
Ask about oral function in Appleton
Dr. Dawn Diehnelt and the team at Serenity Healthy Smiles welcome questions about tongue posture and oral habits. Explore our myofunctional therapy services, or request a consultation to discuss your concerns.
Reference: ASHA: Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders