Myofunctional Therapy
Tongue Thrust
Every time you swallow, your tongue should press against the roof of your mouth — not push forward against your teeth. Tongue thrust is a swallowing pattern that exerts constant pressure on the teeth and can undo years of orthodontic work.
Tongue thrust, also called an anterior tongue thrust or reverse swallow, occurs when the tongue pushes forward or sideways against the teeth during swallowing, speaking, or at rest. We swallow roughly 2,000 times per day — that repeated pressure adds up to significant force on the dental arches.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Open bite (gap between upper and lower front teeth)
- Protruding or flared front teeth
- Lisp or difficulty with certain speech sounds
- Teeth shifting after orthodontic treatment
- Mouth breathing
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing certain foods
- Tongue visible between teeth when speaking or at rest
- Jaw discomfort
Why Tongue Thrust Matters for Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment moves teeth into alignment, but if the underlying muscle pattern is not corrected, the tongue will gradually push them back. This is one of the most common causes of orthodontic relapse. Myofunctional therapy addresses the root cause — the swallow pattern — so that orthodontic results are stable long-term.
How Therapy Retrains the Swallow
Kathleen uses a structured program of tongue strengthening and positioning exercises that teach the tongue to rest on the palate and initiate swallowing from the correct position. Patients practice the new pattern until it becomes automatic, replacing the thrust reflex that developed over years of habitual use.
Speech and Tongue Thrust
Tongue thrust frequently contributes to a frontal lisp (difficulty with "s" and "z" sounds) and other articulation challenges. As the tongue learns correct positioning, speech clarity often improves alongside dental and swallowing outcomes. Kathleen collaborates with speech-language pathologists when both disciplines are needed.
Who Can Benefit
Tongue thrust therapy is effective for children and adults alike. It is particularly recommended before and during orthodontic treatment, after braces are removed to protect the investment, or any time a lisp or open bite is present. A free 15-minute phone consultation will help determine whether myofunctional therapy is the right fit.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Kathleen McQuestion offers a free 15-minute phone consultation. Reach out today to learn how myofunctional therapy can help you.