Speech Therapy
Speech Therapy and Tongue Thrust Swallowing
Speech therapy is situated at the intersection of multiple disciplines and is closely related to orthodontics as well. Maintaining a beautiful, regular set of teeth is only possible with proper swallowing, meaning regular swallowing and speech functions are expected when the muscles of the face, lips, neck, and tongue are in harmony and balance.
In cases of tongue thrust swallowing, the tongue pushes forward or to the side and makes contact with the teeth, sometimes even with the lips. A common complaint is that the dental arch distorts or relapses after orthodontic treatment. In the case of incorrect swallowing, the tongue serves as the „poor internal orthodontic device,” exerting force when in contact with the teeth, disrupting muscle balance, resulting in abnormalities such as:
- Deviation from normal gum and facial development
- Various bite abnormalities
- Dental irregularities
- Speech defects
Although swallowing undergoes changes during development, in infancy, it is still a physiological phenomenon, and in the case of deciduous dentition, it can be considered a transitional swallow. However, tongue thrust swallowing occurring after the development of mixed dentition can be reliably diagnosed. Swallowing is divided into two phases, voluntary and reflexive. Therapy for tongue thrust swallowing, available in our clinic from the age of 10, can assist in mastering the correct mechanism of voluntary swallowing. Learning proper swallowing and incorporating it into daily life requires developing a new habit, making maturity, motivation, dedication, parental support in the case of children, and patience crucial. The main goal of speech therapy available in our dental practice is to complement and assist in the treatment of patients undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Following the assessment of the condition, therapy is personalized, administered individually, either before or in parallel with orthodontic treatment. During therapy, the focus is on developing proper swallowing, restoring disrupted muscle balance, strengthening lip and tongue muscles, and eliminating speech defects caused by incorrect swallowing.
