A healthcare professional in a white coat uses a tongue depressor to examine a seated patient's open mouth in a medical office.

Tongue Thrust: Diagnosis and Treatment in Henderson NV

Young woman undergoing orthodontic treatment to correct tongue thrust issues at Chauncey Orthodontics operates in Henderson, NV.

What Causes Tongue Thrust

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

Habits formed in early childhood frequently play a big role in development. Important contributing factors include:

Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier usage
Bottle feeding beyond recommended age
Inherited oral structure characteristics
Early chewing and swallowing patterns
Oral habits developed during infancy
A doctor to carefully conduct a procedure on a patient with tongue thrust issue at Chauncey Orthodontics in Henderson NV.

Types of Tongue Thrust

Different types of tongue thrust uniquely influence oral health and dental placement. The most common type involves a forward tongue position, which can create gaps between teeth and misaligned bites. Side-pressing patterns may also occur, leading to misaligned bites or uneven tooth wear. Each type requires a personalized treatment strategy for correction.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

A professional evaluation is necessary to accurately 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.

A dentist and assistant, both in blue protective gowns and gloves, examine a patient's mouth for signs of tongue thrust as the patient lies in a dental chair at Chauncey Orthodontics operates in Henderson, NV.
At Chauncey Orthodontics operates in Henderson, NV. A child sits smiling in a dental chair as the professional explains tongue thrust during their check-up.

Tongue Thrust in Children

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for children showing tongue thrust symptoms. Evaluations by age 7 are key to preventing more significant developmental concerns later on. If left untreated, tongue thrust can significantly impact oral development and may require more extensive procedures as the child grows.

Treatment Options for Tongue Thrust

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

In a modern dental office, a professional at Chauncey Orthodontics operates in Henderson NV, examines a patient's teeth for signs of tongue thrust while wearing gloves and a mask.

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 positioning. With frequent effort and expert coaching, results are typically very positive.
A healthcare professional uses a tongue depressor to examine the open mouth of a man wearing glasses during therapy a tongue thrust at Chauncey Orthodontics operates in Henderson, NV.
A doctor in a white coat shows a tablet explain about tongue thrust issue to a seated patient while sitting together at a desk in a brightly lit office at Chauncey Orthodontics operates in Henderson, NV.

Long-Term Management and Prognosis

Successfully managing tongue thrust requires dedication to ongoing care and practice. Regular follow-ups help track progress and support lasting improvement. With timely treatment and regular exercises, patients often see enhanced oral function and improved dental structure.

FAQ

How do I know if I have tongue thrust?

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

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

Fixing tongue thrust helps prevent further dental issues, but existing misalignments often need professional assistance. Schedule a consultation at Chauncey Orthodontics in Henderson, NV 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 metal braces, by making it harder for teeth to align correctly. Treating tongue thrust alongside orthodontics provides the best chance for effective results.