When it comes to orthodontic issues, we usually think of crooked teeth, crowded smiles, or jaw misalignment. But did you know your tongue can also play a significant role?
Tongue thrusting is a common oral habit — especially in children — that can lead to misaligned teeth, speech problems, and bite issues. The good news? It’s treatable. At Ohana Orthodontics, we help kids and adults spot the signs early and correct the issue before it causes long-term damage.
What Is Tongue Thrusting?
Tongue thrusting happens when the tongue pushes forward against or between the front teeth when swallowing, speaking, or even at rest. Over time, that pressure can gradually move teeth out of alignment and affect the bite.
Instead of resting on the roof of the mouth (the correct position), the tongue moves forward, often touching or pushing through the front teeth. This can create or worsen orthodontic problems — especially in children whose mouths are still developing.
Why Does Tongue Thrusting Happen?
Tongue thrusting can develop from a variety of causes, including:
- Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use
- Mouth breathing due to allergies or nasal blockage
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- Delayed transition from bottles to cups
- Oral habits like nail-biting or lip-sucking
- Muscle imbalance or neuromuscular conditions
- Poor tongue posture developed during early childhood
Understanding the cause is the first step toward choosing the right treatment.
Signs and Symptoms of Tongue Thrusting
Not sure if your child has a tongue thrust habit? These are some of the most common signs:
- Tongue pushing between or against the teeth during swallowing or speech
- Mouth breathing or open-lip posture
- Open bite (front teeth don’t meet when the mouth is closed)
- Overjet (upper front teeth sticking out)
- Speech problems, especially with “S” and “Z” sounds
- Difficulty chewing or eating certain foods
- Teeth shifting back after braces or orthodontic treatment
How Tongue Thrust Affects Orthodontic Health
Tongue thrusting creates continuous low-pressure force against the teeth and jaw. Over time, this can:
- Cause or worsen bite problems like open bites or overjets
- Alter facial growth in children
- Lead to difficulty with speech development
- Cause orthodontic relapse if not treated properly
Correcting tongue thrusting early helps prevent long-term complications and protects the results of orthodontic care.
How to Fix Tongue Thrusting
The best approach is a personalized plan that may include therapy, appliances, and dental support. Depending on the cause and severity, treatment may include one or more of the following:
1. Myofunctional Therapy
This therapy helps retrain the muscles of the mouth, tongue, and face. A certified orofacial myologist can guide your child through exercises that strengthen oral function and encourage proper tongue posture.
2. Orthodontic Appliances (Including Tongue Cribs)
When therapy alone isn’t enough, orthodontic appliances can help reinforce better habits. One of the most common tools for tongue thrust is a tongue crib appliance.
Tongue cribs are small, custom devices attached to the upper molars that sit just behind the front teeth. They act as a gentle reminder and physical barrier to stop the tongue from pushing forward during swallowing or at rest.
These appliances are comfortable, subtle, and especially effective in growing children. Over time, they help encourage proper tongue placement and prevent orthodontic relapse.
Other habit-breaking appliances may include:
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Crib-style retainers (fixed or removable)
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Rake or spur appliances
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Nance buttons or space maintainers
These tools are often used alongside braces to support long-term bite correction and facial development.
3. Speech Therapy
If tongue thrusting is affecting your child’s speech, a licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP) can help. They’ll work on correcting tongue placement during speech, especially for difficult sounds like “S” and “Z.”
4. Referral to an ENT or Pediatrician
If enlarged tonsils, chronic congestion, or allergies are contributing to mouth breathing or poor oral posture, we may recommend seeing an ENT or pediatrician. Treating the root cause makes long-term success much more likely.
Why Early Intervention Matters
The sooner the tongue thrust is identified, the easier it is to correct. Young children have flexible muscle patterns and growing jaws, which respond well to therapy and gentle appliance use. Left untreated, however, tongue thrust can lead to:
- Longer and more complex orthodontic treatment
- Relapse after braces
- Lifelong speech and bite issues
Our team at Ohana Orthodontics takes a whole-picture approach to ensure your child’s smile grows in strong and healthy — not just straight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tongue Thrusting
What causes tongue thrusting in children?
Common causes include prolonged thumb-sucking, pacifier use, mouth breathing from allergies, enlarged tonsils, or muscle imbalance. It often starts early and becomes a habit.
How can I tell if my child has a tongue thrust?
Look for an open bite, the tongue showing between the teeth during speech or swallowing, or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. A professional evaluation is the best way to know for sure.
Can tongue thrusting go away on its own?
In some mild cases, it may lessen over time, but most children need therapy or orthodontic intervention to correct it fully.
What is a tongue crib appliance?
A tongue crib is a small device attached to the upper teeth that prevents the tongue from pushing forward. It’s used to help break the tongue thrust habit and is often combined with other treatments.
How does a tongue crib work?
It creates a gentle barrier behind the front teeth, guiding the tongue into a healthier resting position and stopping it from pressing forward during swallowing.
Will my child need a tongue crib?
If the tongue thrusting is strong or persistent, your orthodontist may recommend a tongue crib or other habit appliance. It’s especially helpful if myofunctional therapy alone isn’t enough.
Is tongue thrust harmful for adults too?
Yes. Adults can experience relapse after orthodontic treatment, bite issues, or speech challenges due to tongue thrust. Treatment is still effective at any age.
What’s the best age to treat tongue thrusting?
The earlier, the better — ideally between ages 5 and 9. But teens and adults can also benefit from a custom treatment plan.
Tongue and Teeth Care in Canby, OR
If you’re in the Canby, OR, area, visit Ohana Orthodontics if you suspect you or your child has tongue thrust issues. We can recommend the best way to address the problem and make tooth repairs with braces or Invisalign if needed. The sooner the problems are addressed, the less damage they will cause to your teeth, speech, and breathing. You can schedule an appointment with us to get started today!
