Tongue thrust

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Tongue thrust (also called "reverse" or "immature" swallow) is the common name given to orofacial muscular imbalance, a human behavioral pattern in which the tongue protrudes through the anterior incisors during swallowing, speech and while the tongue is at rest. Nearly all young children exhibit a swallowing pattern involving tongue protrusion, but by the age of 6 most have automatically switched to a normal swallowing pattern.

To correct tongue thrust, speech pathologists prescribe exercises designed to promote a normal swallowing pattern.

UPDATE: Recent studies show the tongue training lessons have limited benefits and proper treatment should include the use of a dental appliance to keep the tongue away from the front teeth. The crib appliance and Bluegrass appliances are commonly used by dentists and orthodontists for this purpose. The website [1] discusses the other considerations related to this condition.

[edit] External links

• Hearing, Speech and Deafness Center: Tongue Thrust Disorders

The habit of pushing the tongue against the teeth or between the teeth during swallowing or speech (when it's uncalled for) is defined as "tongue thrust". It is commonly found in young children but it should progressively disappear during childhood and be absent in adults. Tongue thrust is usually treated by orthodontists and orofacial myofunctional therapists.