Tongue Thrust: Diagnosis and Treatment in Overland Park KS

A healthcare professional at Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS examines a seated woman's mouth exhibiting tongue thrust with a tongue depressor.
A healthcare professional at Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS represent examines a man's tongue thrust with a tongue depressor.
A healthcare professional at Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS examines a man's open mouth exhibiting tongue thrust with a tongue depressor.

What Causes Tongue Thrust

Tongue thrust may develop due to a combination of genetic and environmental influences. Early childhood habits frequently contribute to its occurrence. Common causes 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
At Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS, two masked dentists perform a dental procedure tongue thrust treatment on a patient under exam lights.

Types of Tongue Thrust

Tongue thrust can impact dental health and alignment in various ways. The most frequent form involves the tongue pushing forward, which can cause gaps between teeth and disrupt their alignment. Additionally, pressure from the sides of the tongue may occur, potentially leading to crossbites or uneven tooth wear. Proper treatment plans tailored to the specific type are essential to address these issues effectively.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

A professional evaluation is essential to diagnose tongue thrust. Typical indicators include visible gaps between teeth, bite irregularities, or atypical swallowing habits. During the assessment, experts carefully examine tongue positioning while at rest, speaking, and swallowing to determine the condition and its level of severity.

At Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS, a young patient with tongue thrust receives care from masked, gloved dental staff.
A young boy in a dentist's chair with a blue bib gets his mouth examined for tongue thrust treatment at Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS.

Tongue Thrust in Children

Identifying tongue thrust at an early age is important for children. By the time they reach age 7, a professional evaluation can help prevent significant developmental issues later on. If untreated, it can affect dental growth and require more complex treatments in the future.

Treatment Options for Tongue Thrust

Treatment focuses on improving tongue position and function with customized therapy programs. Strategies for behavioral adjustments and tailored treatment plans are designed to suit each person’s specific needs. Early detection and consistent practice of recommended exercises or treatments yield the most effective results.

A dentist at Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS, wearing gloves and a mask, examines a female patient’s mouth exhibiting tongue thrust.

Myofunctional Therapy for Tongue Thrust

This therapy focuses on fixing how the tongue moves and making oral muscles stronger. Targeted exercises are used to teach correct swallowing techniques and proper tongue positioning. Consistent practice along with expert guidance is essential for lasting success.

A young boy in a dental chair gives a thumbs up represent trusted myofunctional therapy for tongue thrust at Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS.
At Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS, a dentist checks a young girl's mouth as she sits on her mother's lap for represent long-term management and prognosis tongue thrust treatment.

Long-Term Management and Prognosis

Successfully managing tongue thrust requires commitment to ongoing care and consistency. Regular follow-up appointments are critical for monitoring progress and ensuring lasting results. With proper treatment and consistent practice of recommended exercises, patients often see significant improvements in oral function and dental alignment.

FAQ

How do I know if I have tongue thrust?

Common signs include noticeable gaps between teeth, difficulty with normal swallowing, and speech issues such as lisping. To confirm, a professional evaluation is recommended, as these symptoms may also be linked to other oral conditions.

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

Correcting tongue thrust can help prevent further misalignment, but existing dental issues usually require professional intervention for proper correction. Consult a specialist to determine the best treatment options for your needs.

How can tongue thrust affect orthodontic treatment?

Tongue thrust may impact the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment by creating resistance to proper tooth movement, which can prolong the treatment timeframe. A thorough professional evaluation and addressing tongue thrust simultaneously with orthodontic care are crucial to achieving the best possible outcomes.