Pediatric Therapy for Tongue Thrust in Buford, G
Does your child’s tongue seem to push forward when they speak, swallow, or rest? Tongue thrust can lead to speech challenges, dental issues, and feeding troubles if left untreated. But luckily, this condition is easy and fun to correct with the help of our expert pediatric speech therapists.
At TLC Therapy Services, we’re dedicated to helping children build the key developmental skills they need for a lifetime of success and healthy growth. Our pediatric speech therapists are here to help your child overcome tongue thrust with fun, effective therapy at our supportive clinic.
What Is Tongue Thrust?
Tongue thrust is a condition where the tongue pushes forward or rests between the teeth instead of staying in its natural position against the roof of the mouth. This can happen during swallowing, speaking, or even at rest.
This is actually a common reflex for newborn babies that helps them nurse in the first few months of life. But if it continues past about four months of age, it can cause trouble with future speech and feeding milestones.
Common Symptoms of Tongue Thrust
Here are some signs to help you recognize tongue thrust:
- Tongue pushes forward during swallowing or speech
- Open bite or gaps between teeth caused by tongue pressure
- Speech sounds, like “s” or “z,” are pronounced with a lisp
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing certain foods
- Resting tongue position between or against the teeth
Why Does Tongue Thrust Need to Be Treated?
While tongue thrust may seem like a minor issue, it can lead to other challenges if left untreated. For example, the pressure of the tongue against the teeth can actually cause tooth misalignment or an open bite that requires treatment from an orthodontist to fix. Additionally, this forward tongue position can impact speech skills like articulation, and it can even lead to challenges with chewing and swallowing food.
The good news is that treating tongue thrust is simple. With pediatric speech therapy, your child can develop better tongue positioning and overcome the challenges associated with this condition.
How Our Pediatric Therapists Can Treat Tongue Thrust
At TLC Therapy Services, our skilled speech therapists use personalized, play-based strategies to treat tongue thrust. First, we’ll start with a thorough assessment to determine the specifics of your child’s oral motor skills. Then we’ll develop a therapy plan designed to help your child learn proper tongue positioning in a fun and engaging way. Your child’s treatment may include:
- Oral Motor Exercises: to strengthen tongue muscles and teach proper placement
- Swallowing Techniques: to help your child learn how to swallow with correct tongue posture
- Speech Therapy: to address lisps or other articulation challenges
- Parent Education: to teach you simple strategies to use at home with your child to support their progress between therapy sessions
Schedule an Evaluation Today
Tongue thrust can impact your child’s speech and oral health, but our experts at TLC Therapy Services can help! Give us a call at (770) 696-6649 to schedule an evaluation with our pediatric speech therapists today to learn more.