As a parent, ensuring your child’s oral health goes beyond daily brushing and flossing. Certain habits, such as tongue thrusting and atypical swallowing patterns, can quietly affect how their teeth and jaw develop — often leading to misalignment if left untreated. Taking proactive steps through early kids orthodontic care can help identify these issues early on. At Smile Team, their experienced orthodontists can guide you in managing these habits and supporting your child’s healthiest smile for the future.

What Is Tongue Thrusting? 

Tongue thrusting is prevalent among school-aged children. While tongue thrust is a natural reflex in infants, it becomes problematic when it persists into childhood. 

Tongue thrusting, also known as reverse swallow or immature swallow, is an oral myofunctional disorder characterised by the tongue pushing forward against or between the teeth during swallowing, speaking, or even at rest. In a normal swallowing pattern, the tongue presses against the roof of the mouth, supporting the proper alignment of the teeth and jaws. 

However, in tongue thrusting, the tongue pushes forward against the teeth instead. This atypical movement disrupts dental development and can lead to misalignment over time.

As children grow, their teeth and jaw are more malleable and susceptible to changes caused by abnormal swallowing patterns. Consistent tongue thrust in children uses an abnormal swallowing pattern; it applies improper forces on the developing teeth and jaw. This repetitive pressure can gradually influence the dental arches’ shape and the position of the teeth, which may lead to noticeable misalignments that may require orthodontic intervention.

In addition to swallowing patterns, improper tongue posture at rest is also one of the causes of crooked teeth in kids. When the tongue rests forward against the teeth instead of against the roof of the mouth, it can exert constant pressure on the teeth. This pressure can further contribute to misalignment and reinforce the effects of atypical swallowing patterns.

Signs and Symptoms Parents Can Look Out For 

As a parent, being proactive about your child’s oral health can make a difference in their long-term dental well-being. Observing certain signs and symptoms can help you identify potential issues related to tongue thrusting and atypical swallowing patterns. Here is a checklist of indicators to look out for:

  1. Tongue Visibly Pushing Forward While Swallowing: Notice if your child’s tongue moves forward during swallowing.
  2. Open Bite or Front Teeth Not Touching: Check if your child’s front teeth do not touch when they bite down.
  3. Speech Issues Like Lisping: Pay attention to speech difficulties, such as lisping, related to tongue positioning.
  4. Frequent Mouth Breathing: Observe if your child often breathes through their mouth instead of their nose.
  5. Difficulty Closing Lips Completely: Notice if your child struggles to close their lips tightly.
  6. Forceful Swallowing: Watch for signs of strained or forceful swallowing.
  7. Thumb or Pacifier Sucking Beyond Toddler Years: Be aware if your child continues these habits past the age of 3.

Implications If Left Untreated

Suppose tongue thrusting and atypical swallowing patterns persist without intervention. In that case, they can lead to a range of dental and functional issues that affect oral health and overall well-being.

  1. Misaligned Teeth: Persistent tongue thrusting can lead to issues such as:
    • Crowding: Teeth may overlap due to insufficient space in the dental arch.
    • Spacing: Gaps between teeth can occur if the tongue pushes them apart.
    • Open Bite: The upper and lower teeth do not meet when biting down.
    • Overbite: The upper teeth overlap the lower teeth.
  2. Difficulties with Speech Articulation: Abnormal tongue positioning can affect speech, often resulting in a lisp or other articulation problems. This can be distressing for children and may require speech therapy.
  3. Problems with Chewing and Swallowing Food: Misaligned teeth and jaw issues can make eating difficult, potentially leading to digestive problems or discomfort while chewing.
  4. Potential Impact on Self-Esteem: Visible dental issues or speech difficulties can affect a child’s self-esteem, especially during adolescence. This can lead to anxiety or social withdrawal related to appearance or speech.
  5. Increased Risk of Relapse After Orthodontic Treatment: If these habits are not addressed, orthodontic corrections may not be stable in the long term. The tongue can continue to exert pressure on the teeth, causing them to return to their original position.

Parents should observe their child during routine activities like eating or talking. These signs are potential indicators of underlying issues, but a professional evaluation by a kids’ orthodontist is necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

The Role of a Kids’ Orthodontist 

Early evaluation by a kids’ orthodontist is crucial for assessing oral habits in the context of facial and dental development. They diagnose and treat these issues through a comprehensive diagnostic process, typically including a clinical exam and imaging to assess the alignment of teeth and jaw development. They adopt a comprehensive approach that addresses the symptoms and the underlying causes of misalignment.

Treatment options and habit correction strategies are tailored based on the assessment. Myofunctional therapy is often recommended, which involves exercises to retrain the tongue and facial muscles, promoting proper swallowing and tongue positioning. Habit appliances, such as fixed or removable devices, may discourage tongue thrusting by preventing the tongue from pushing against the teeth. 

Conclusion

Tongue thrusting and atypical swallowing patterns are often hidden contributors to misaligned teeth in children, yet they play a significant role in shaping their oral health. While seemingly minor, these habits can lead to long-term dental issues if left unaddressed.

As a parent, taking a proactive approach is crucial. By observing your child’s oral habits and seeking guidance from a qualified kids orthodontist, you can help identify issues early and prevent more complex dental problems from developing.

Understanding the connection between swallowing patterns and teeth alignment can empower you to address these habits effectively, ensuring your child achieves a healthy, aligned smile that will last a lifetime.