What is Tongue Thrust?
Tongue thrust is the forward movement of the tongue during swallowing, either pushing through or against teeth. Most commonly the tongue pushes forward, but can also push out to one or both sides. This is a natural swallow for babies, but changes as a child matures.
If left untreated, and the forward tongue movement persists, speech, respiratory, and dental complications may result.
Characteristics:
- History of prolonged pacifier or thumb sucking
- At rest lips do not close
- Child breathes through mouth
- Tongue rests between front teeth or on bottom of mouth
- Open bite
- Defined rugae on alveolar ridge
- High arched palate
- Short upper lip when compared to bottom lip
- Tongue appears large
Kaleidoscope Pediatric Therapy can treat tongue thrust. We have six speech-language pathologists certified in the Stone Tongue Thrust Protocol STTP. Completing our program in conjunction with orthodontic and dental treatment can support, and maintain, lifelong dental health. With committed participation, the STTP method results in a new resting posture and an efficient swallow through a series of exercises. Tongue thrust elimination is recommended for ages 8+, the STTP program can be used along with tongue thrust appliance. Completing our program in conjunction with orthodontic and dental treatment can support, and maintain, lifelong dental health.
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