Enhance Your Smile
with Myofunctional Therapy
Understanding and Overcoming Tongue Thrust and Mouth Breathing
Do I Have A Tongue Thrust?
Tongue thrusting happens when the swallowing muscles coordinate incorrectly. The tongue, being a strong muscle, can shift the teeth by exerting continuous pressure against them and pushing forward during swallowing.
Why Tongue Thrust Matters if You Have Braces:
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Prolongs orthodontic treatment, keeping braces on longer
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Causes teeth to move back after braces are removed
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Makes it difficult for your orthodontist to move teeth and close spaces
Common Signs of Tongue Thrust:
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Mouth Breathing (open mouth at rest)
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Thumb Sucking
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Lisping (affecting T, D, N, and L sounds)
Impact on Orthodontic Treatment:
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Braces Move Teeth: Braces apply light, constant pressure to the teeth, moving them slowly and eventually solidifying them into new positions.
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Muscles Move Teeth Too: The muscles of the mouth and face can influence tooth movement and position. An imbalance in these forces affects the growth, comfort, and position of teeth and jaw.
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Possible Appliance: Consult your orthodontist about appliances to help control tongue thrust as a last resort option.
Mouth Breathing
Most people breathe through their nose, which naturally humidifies and filters the air. When nasal breathing is insufficient, mouth breathing becomes necessary, leading to several issues
Causes of Mouth Breathing:
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Allergies
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Deviated Septum
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Thumb or Finger Sucking Habit
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Nasal Polyps
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Enlarged Tonsils or Adenoids
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Chronic Nasal Congestion
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Respiratory Infection
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Effects of Mouth Breathing:
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Changes tongue function, causing tongue thrust
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Affects speech, swallowing, breathing, and chewing
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Posture and Appearance Changes:
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Forward Head Posture
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Flattened Nose
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Short Upper Lip
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Retruded Jaw
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Gummy Smile
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Crooked Teeth
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Other Health Effects:
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Headaches
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Bleeding Gums
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Sore Throat and Cold Symptoms
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Bad Breath and Higher Risk for Cavities
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Poor Sleep and Chronic Fatigue
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Digestive Disturbances (gas, upset stomach, acid reflux)
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Increased Heart Rate
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Stress Hormone Production
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Root Issue: Mouth breathing often stems from an oxygen issue, as less oxygen is absorbed into the bloodstream when breathing through the mouth. This can lead to poor sleep, affecting growth and academic performance in children and causing high blood pressure, heart problems, sleep apnea, and other medical issues in adults.
Steps To Success: No More Thumb Sucking
Follow these steps to overcome thumb-sucking habits:
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Use a Sock Every Night:
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Pin it to pajama sleeves if necessary.
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Call me the first three mornings to report your progress.
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Use a chart to check off successful nights, aiming for ten consecutive nights and eventually filling the entire chart.
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Daytime Finger Cream:
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Apply finger cream to remind you not to suck your thumb or fingers.
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Finger Fidget:
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Keep a finger fidget handy to keep your hands busy.
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Tongue Position:
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Remember to keep your tongue on the "Spot" throughout the day.
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Peanut Butter Rub Exercise:
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Perform this exercise when you feel the urge to suck your thumb or finger.
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Tongue Reminder Exercise:
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Practice this exercise once a day.
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Rewards:
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Small Prize: After three successful nights
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Medium Prize: After ten successful nights
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Large Prize: After filling the entire chart (one month)
The Role of Myofunctional Therapy
The muscles of our mouth and face significantly influence the movement and position of teeth. Ideally, there is a balance of forces between the lips and cheeks on the outside of the teeth, and the tongue on the inside. Any imbalance can affect the growth, comfort, and position of teeth and jaw.
Possible Appliances: In some cases, orthodontists may recommend appliances to help control tongue thrust and support the realignment of teeth and jaw muscles. Consult with your orthodontist to explore possible options tailored to your specific needs.
Assessments for snoring, sleep apnea, TMJ pain, and general dental care. Appointments are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 PM to 8 PM. If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to reach out via text or call. You can also contact me at my alternate number: 705-450-1083. Book your appointment today and get quality, personalized dental care!
