From the Guidelines
Oral thrust, also known as tongue thrust, is typically treated by referral to a pediatric dentist or a general dentist who maintains a high level of competence in the care of children, as they can provide guidance on how to manage the habit and prevent potential dental malocclusions. According to the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry 1, a pediatric dentist has completed 4 years of dental school and a 2- to 3-year postgraduate residency in pediatric dentistry, and is well-equipped to handle such cases. The treatment approach may involve a combination of education, symptomatic relief, and psychological support.
Some possible strategies for managing oral thrust include:
- Education and explanatory approaches, such as reassurance regarding the nature of symptoms and good prognosis for resolution 1
- Symptomatic approaches, such as reduction of excessive musculoskeletal tension in speech and non-speech muscles, and elimination of secondary or accessory movements 1
- Psychological approaches, such as attention to psychosocial issues, addressing cognitive features related to locus of control, executive function, and abnormal illness beliefs, and helping the person gain insight into the positive changes in articulation 1
It is essential to address underlying causes and contributing factors, such as oral habits, to prevent potential dental malocclusions and other related disorders. Referral to a pediatric dentist or a general dentist with expertise in pediatric care is crucial for prompt consultation and appropriate management of oral thrust. The pediatric dentist can assess the child's overall oral health, provide guidance on how to manage the habit, and offer treatment options to prevent potential complications, as recommended by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry 1.
From the Research
Treatment for Oral Thrust (Tongue Thrust)
The treatment for oral thrust, also known as tongue thrust, typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including orthodontic and myofunctional therapy.
- Orthodontic treatment is necessary to correct malocclusion, while myofunctional rehabilitation is essential to correct the oral habit of tongue thrust 2.
- Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) has been shown to be effective in treating tongue thrust habit, with various exercises that can help improve tongue posture, swallowing patterns, and overall oral function 3.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in treating tongue thrust, as it can help prevent the development of malocclusion and other oral health issues 2, 4, 3.
- Treatment may also involve the use of orthodontic appliances, such as a tongue thrust appliance, to help correct the tongue's resting posture and prevent further malocclusion 5.
- In some cases, treatment may need to be tailored to the individual patient's needs, taking into account factors such as age, developmental stage, and orthodontic treatment 4.
Types of Therapy
- Myofunctional therapy: aims to correct the oral habit of tongue thrust and improve overall oral function 2, 3.
- Orthodontic therapy: necessary to correct malocclusion and prevent further oral health issues 5, 2.
- Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT): a type of therapy that focuses on exercises to improve tongue posture, swallowing patterns, and overall oral function 3.
Importance of Early Intervention
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in treating tongue thrust, as it can help prevent the development of malocclusion and other oral health issues 2, 4, 3.
- Treatment outcomes are generally better when intervention occurs at an early age, such as during the deciduous or primary mixed dentition stage 2.