Tongue Thrust and Thumb Sucking Habits
Therapy Goals
- Control the reverse-swallow pattern characterized as a strong, outward-pushing movement of the tongue that is seen in normally developing individuals as well as in those with neurological dysfunction.
Note: Tongue thrusting is the abnormal habit of placing the tongue between the teeth before and during the act of swallowing. A tongue thrust may be associated with a retruding lower jaw, long narrow face, flaccid muscles of the lips and neck, elongation of the nose and abnormal airway path, lips that do not touch without contracting the chin muscles, hyperactivity of the facial muscles, narrow and abnormal development of the palate, a short lingual frenulum and an open bite where the front teeth do not contact.
Note: Thumb sucking can accompany a tongue thrust. Elimination of the habit can be accomplished with a behavioral program with positive reinforcement and coaching. Thumb sucking can severely distort the teeth and bone positions.
