Does your child’s tongue push forward between the teeth when swallowing or talking? This is called tongue thrust. It is common in young children, but when it continues as the adult teeth come in, it can affect how the teeth and jaws develop. Here is what parents in Kepong should know.
What is tongue thrust?
Babies naturally push the tongue forward when they feed. As children grow, most switch to a mature swallow, where the tongue rests against the roof of the mouth and presses upward when swallowing. In tongue thrust, the tongue keeps pushing forward against or between the front teeth instead.
We swallow hundreds of times a day, so this small, repeated pressure can gradually move the teeth.
Signs to look out for
- The tongue can be seen between the teeth when your child swallows, talks or rests
- The mouth often hangs open, with the lips apart at rest
- A lisp, especially with “s”, “z”, “t” and “d” sounds
- Messy eating or drinking, or noisy swallowing
- Upper front teeth that stick out
- An open bite: the front teeth do not meet when the back teeth are closed
What causes it?
There is often more than one cause. Common links include:
- Mouth breathing, for example from a blocked nose, allergies or large tonsils and adenoids
- Long-term thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier and bottle use
- A tight tongue tie that limits tongue movement
- Habits that simply continued from early childhood
How tongue thrust affects teeth
If it continues while the adult teeth are coming through (usually from about age 6), tongue thrust may contribute to:
- front teeth that flare forward or have gaps
- an open bite, making it harder to bite into food
- a narrow upper jaw and crowded teeth
- teeth moving back after braces if the habit remains
How it is treated
Treatment focuses on the cause and on retraining the tongue. Depending on your child, this may include:
- Myofunctional exercises to teach correct tongue posture and swallowing
- Myobrace or other myofunctional appliances, which guide tongue position and encourage lip closure and nasal breathing. Learn more in our guide to Myobrace in Kepong.
- Referral to a speech therapist if speech is affected
- Referral to an ENT doctor if breathing through the nose is blocked
- Braces later, if the teeth have already moved significantly
Earlier assessment usually means more options, because the jaws are still growing.
When should you see a dentist?
Book a check-up if your child is 6 years or older and you notice the tongue pushing between the teeth, front teeth that do not meet, or front teeth sticking out. Our dentists will examine the bite, watch how your child swallows and explain the options and costs clearly.
Book an assessment in Kepong
Our Kepong-area clinics are open 7 days a week:
- Qualiteeth Kepong – 61, Jalan Seri Bintang 2, Taman Sri Bintang
- Qualiteeth Kepong Baru
- Qualiteeth Desa Aman Puri – 2-9A, Jalan Desa 1/3
- Qualiteeth Jinjang Selatan – No. 23, Jalan 8/32, Taman Jinjang Baru
Book an appointment and the branch will confirm your slot on WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions
Is tongue thrust normal in children?
It is normal in babies and toddlers. Most children grow out of it by around 4 to 6 years old. If it continues after the adult front teeth come in, it is worth an assessment.
Can tongue thrust correct itself?
Sometimes, especially in younger children. If it continues past about age 6 or is already affecting the teeth, exercises or an appliance may be recommended.
Can braces fix tongue thrust?
Braces move teeth but do not change tongue habits. If the habit is not addressed, teeth can move back after braces, so the habit is usually treated as well.
This article gives general information and is not a diagnosis. Your dentist will advise on suitable treatment after an examination.