how to stop tongue thrusting as an adult

3 min read 24-01-2025

how to stop tongue thrusting as an adult

Meta Description: Tongue thrusting as an adult? This comprehensive guide explores the causes, effects, and effective solutions for correcting tongue thrust, including exercises, therapies, and when to seek professional help. Learn how to improve your oral health and facial aesthetics.

Understanding Tongue Thrust

Tongue thrust, also known as reverse swallowing, is a condition where the tongue protrudes between the teeth during swallowing, speech, or rest. While common in children, it can persist into adulthood, leading to various oral health issues and cosmetic concerns. Many adults are unaware they have it. This article will guide you through understanding and correcting adult tongue thrust.

Causes of Tongue Thrust in Adults

Several factors contribute to adult tongue thrust:

Childhood habits: Uncorrected tongue thrust in childhood is the most common cause. Thumb sucking, pacifier use, and bottle feeding for extended periods can contribute.
Genetics: A family history of tongue thrust can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Mouth breathing: Chronic mouth breathing often leads to improper tongue posture, promoting tongue thrust.
Underlying medical conditions: In some cases, neuromuscular disorders or other medical conditions might cause tongue thrust.

Negative Effects of Adult Tongue Thrust

Ignoring adult tongue thrust can lead to several problems:

Malocclusion: This is a misalignment of the teeth and jaws, potentially requiring orthodontic treatment.
Open bite: A gap between the upper and lower front teeth, affecting chewing and speech.
Gummy smile: Excessive gum exposure when smiling due to changes in jaw alignment.
Speech impediments: Tongue thrust can sometimes interfere with clear articulation.
Facial muscle weakness: Chronic tongue thrust can affect facial muscle development.

How to Stop Tongue Thrusting: Effective Strategies

Correcting tongue thrust in adulthood requires dedication and often a multifaceted approach. Here are several methods that can help:

1. Myofunctional Therapy

Myofunctional therapy is a specialized approach focusing on correcting oral habits and muscle function. A myofunctional therapist will work with you to identify and address the underlying causes of your tongue thrust. This may involve:

Exercises: Specific exercises to strengthen the tongue and facial muscles.
Oral posture correction: Learning to maintain proper tongue position at rest.
Swallowing retraining: Developing a proper swallowing pattern.

2. Orthodontic Treatment

In some cases, orthodontic treatment (braces or aligners) may be necessary to correct malocclusion caused by tongue thrust. This often works in conjunction with myofunctional therapy for best results.

3. At-Home Exercises

While professional guidance is recommended, certain at-home exercises can support therapy or be used independently if the tongue thrust is mild:

Tongue-to-Palate Exercise: Press your tongue against the roof of your mouth, behind your upper teeth. Hold for a few seconds and repeat. This strengthens the muscles that support proper tongue posture.
Facial Muscle Exercises: Practice exercises that strengthen the muscles of the face, including those around the mouth and cheeks. These exercises can improve overall facial muscle tone.
Mindful Swallowing: Pay close attention to how you swallow. Consciously try to swallow with your tongue pressed against the roof of your mouth.

Q: How long does it take to correct tongue thrust?

A: The duration varies depending on the severity of the condition and individual response to treatment. It could take several months or even years of consistent effort and professional guidance.

4. Seeking Professional Help

It's crucial to consult a qualified professional, such as a dentist, orthodontist, or myofunctional therapist, for diagnosis and personalized treatment. They can assess the severity of your tongue thrust and recommend the most appropriate course of action. Don't hesitate to seek help—early intervention often leads to better outcomes.

Maintaining Results

Once you've corrected your tongue thrust, it's essential to maintain proper oral habits to prevent recurrence. This includes:

Consistent practice of exercises: Continue practicing the exercises learned during therapy to strengthen your tongue and facial muscles.
Maintaining good oral hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health.
Avoiding habits that can cause relapse: Refrain from habits like thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use (if applicable).

Conclusion

Adult tongue thrust is a correctable condition. With dedication, the right approach (often involving professional help), and consistent effort, you can significantly improve your oral health, facial aesthetics, and overall well-being. Don't hesitate to seek professional guidance; it's an investment in your long-term oral health. Remember, early intervention is key for successful treatment.