Tongue thrust, also known as reverse swallow or deviate swallow, is a condition in which the tongue is pressed up against the teeth or between them while gulping. In many cases, this condition leads to the movement of the tongue incorrectly to the sides, instead of moving forward to the teeth. This improper positioning of the tongue can occur even as the tongue is at rest, and in this case, it will lie too far forward.
Types of Tongue Thrust
Tongue thrust is an orofacial myofunctional disorder (OMD), having many different types.
- Unilateral thrust when the tongue pushes unilaterally to the sides between the back teeth during swallowing
- Anterior thrust refers to the case when the upper incisors are extremely protruded and lower lip is pulled in by the lower lip.
- Bilateral thrust, when the tongue pushes between the back teeth on both sides during swallowing. Large tongue can also be noted
Tongue thrust in babies
In babies who are breastfed or bottle-fed, tongue thrust is normal. As the child gets older, their swallowing and speaking pattern should evolve.
However, some types of bottle nipples — and prolonged use of a bottle — can lead to an abnormal tongue thrust that lasts past the infant stage and into early childhood.
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