The tongue helps in speaking, eating, and swallowing. However, if the tongue rests between the front and upper teeth or pushes against the front teeth while swallowing, it can cause severe oral issues. Tongue thrusting is more common in kids. However, some keep this habit as they get older. In most cases, this condition results from things such as allergies, narrow palate, and enlarged tonsils. Some behaviors, such as thumb sucking and using pacifiers, can also cause tongue thrusting. The good thing is that a dentist can help to stop this habit with tongue therapy and oral appliances. Failure to treat this condition, it can cause complications such as:
Misaligned Teeth
Applying constant pressure against the front teeth can make them move out of alignment. Even a small amount of pressure over a long period can create changes in your baby's teeth. This may result in gaps between the teeth or teeth crowding that can make speaking difficult. In addition, misalignment increases the risk of bacteria build-up, which is among the leading causes of gum disease and tooth decay.
Bite Issues
An open bite is a common issue caused by tongue thrusting. It is a condition where the top and bottom teeth do not meet properly. In most cases, it occurs when the baby rests their tongue between the upper and lower teeth. This prevents the teeth from erupting properly. People with this condition usually experience mouth breathing and difficulty speaking. They are also likely to suck their fingers, which can worsen the bite problem.
A Dry Mouth
When tongue thrusting becomes a habit, your kid may rest their tongue past their front teeth or breathe through their mouth, resulting in a dry mouth. When there is not enough saliva, it puts your baby's mouth at risk of plaque buildup, which can contribute to issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Request an appointment with our professionals and find out more about the consequences of tongue thrusting.
About Us - Muscle Shoals, AL • Singing River Dentistry At Singing River Dentistry, our goal is to help our patients achieve beautiful smiles. Schedule your appointment today! Singing River Dentistry, 2402 Avalon Ave, Suite A, Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 ^ 256-712-3186 ^ muscleshoals.singingriverdentistry.com ^ 10/21/2024 ^ Page Phrases: dentist Muscle Shoals AL ^
The tongue helps in speaking, eating, and swallowing. However, if the tongue rests between the front and upper teeth or pushes against the front teeth while swallowing, it can cause severe oral issues. Tongue thrusting is more common in kids. However, some keep this habit as they get older. In most cases, this condition results from things such as allergies, narrow palate, and enlarged tonsils. Some behaviors, such as thumb sucking and using pacifiers, can also cause tongue thrusting. The good thing is that a dentist can help to stop this habit with tongue therapy and oral appliances. Failure to treat this condition, it can cause complications such as: