A woman sits in a chair, having her throat examined for potential tongue thrust issues by a doctor who carefully uses a tongue depressor in the medical office in Greenville, SC

Tongue Thrust: Diagnosis and Treatment in Greenville SC

A healthcare professional conducts a thorough throat examination on a seated man, checking for any signs of tongue thrust, using a tongue depressor in a well-equipped medical office in Greenville, SC

What Causes Tongue Thrust

Tongue thrust can be caused by both genetic and environmental factors.

Habits formed in early childhood frequently have a significant impact on development. Key contributing factors include:

Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use
Bottle feeding beyond recommended age
Inherited oral structure characteristics
Early feeding and swallowing patterns
Oral habits developed during infancy
A dentist examines a patient's mouth, observing signs of tongue thrust, using a dental tool under a bright examination light in a modern dental office in Greenville, SC

Types of Tongue Thrust

Different types of tongue thrust uniquely affect oral health and dental positioning. The most frequent type involves a forward tongue position, which can cause gaps between teeth and misaligned bites. Side-pressing patterns may also happen, leading to misaligned bites or uneven tooth wear. Each type needs a personalized treatment plan for correction.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Professional evaluation is necessary to correctly diagnose tongue thrust. Common signs include noticeable gaps between teeth, improper bite alignment, and unique swallowing habits. During assessments, specialists observe tongue placement at rest, during speech, and while swallowing to evaluate the condition and its severity.

Two dental professionals in blue gowns and masks perform a procedure on a patient lying in a dental chair, carefully addressing issues related to tongue thrust in Greenville, SC
A dentist examines a young boy's teeth using a dental mirror and light, noting potential tongue thrust issues. The boy, seated comfortably in the dental chair, wears a blue bib in Greenville, SC

Tongue Thrust in Children

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for children with tongue thrust symptoms. Evaluations by age 7 are key to preventing bigger developmental concerns later. If left untreated, tongue thrust can seriously affect oral development and may demand more intensive procedures as the child ages.

Treatment Options for Tongue Thrust

Treatment is focused on retraining tongue function and positioning using specific therapeutic methods. Dental professional plans may include behavior strategies and tailored exercises addressing individual needs. Success relies on early detection and consistent practice of prescribed methods.

A dentist wearing a mask examines a patient's teeth with a dental tool, checking for signs of tongue thrust. An assistant stands nearby, also wearing gloves. The patient is seated in the dental chair, mouth open in Greenville, SC

Myofunctional Therapy for Tongue Thrust

This specialized therapy corrects improper tongue movement and strengthens oral muscles. Patients practice exercises to achieve healthy swallowing patterns and proper tongue placement. With frequent effort and expert coaching, results are typically very positive.
Two dental professionals in white coats examine an X-ray image of teeth, discussing tongue thrust findings and pointing with a pencil in a bright, clinical setting in Greenville, SC
In the dental office, a dentist carefully demonstrates a dental model to a patient with braces, explaining how tongue thrust can impact their progress, while the patient listens attentively in Greenville, SC

Long-Term Management and Prognosis

Managing tongue thrust successfully requires dedication to continued care and practice. Regular follow-ups help track progress and support lasting improvement. With timely treatment and regular exercises, patients typically see better oral function and improved dental structure.

FAQ

How do I know if I have tongue thrust?

Noticeable gaps between teeth, swallowing difficulties, or speech problems like lisping can be indicators of tongue thrust. Getting a professional evaluation is the best way to confirm, as these symptoms might also mean other oral-related issues.

Will my teeth straighten naturally if I correct my tongue thrust?

Fixing tongue thrust helps stop further dental problems, but existing misalignments often need professional help. Schedule a consultation at Tollison Orthodontics in Greenville SC to discuss your specific concerns and find solutions.

How can tongue thrust affect orthodontic treatment?

Yes, tongue thrust can slow or interfere with orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign or traditional braces, by making it harder for teeth to align correctly. Treating tongue thrust alongside orthodontics offers the best chance for effective results.