Could My Child Have a Tongue Thrust

by Lori Melnitsky, MA CCC-SLP , Speech Pathologist

You may have never heard the term “tongue thrust” — until your orthodontist mentioned it.

Or maybe you’ve noticed:

• An open bite that isn’t closing

• Your child’s tongue peeking forward when they swallow

• A persistent “S” sound that doesn’t sound quite right

• Lips that stay slightly open at rest

And now you’re wondering…

Is this something they’ll grow out of?Or is it something we should address?

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

(adults have this as well at times)-it can still be addressed

What Is a Tongue Thrust Pattern?

A tongue thrust pattern happens when the tongue pushes forward against or between the teeth during swallowing or at rest.

Here’s what surprises most parents:

We swallow thousands of times a day.

If the tongue consistently pushes forward, that repeated pressure can influence how teeth grow and how stable orthodontic work remains over time.

It’s not something your child is doing on purpose.It’s a learned muscle pattern.

And muscle patterns can be changed with the right guidance.

How Tongue Thrust Can Affect Your Child

Parents often ask me:

“Is this really a big deal?”

Sometimes it is. Sometimes it isn’t.

But tongue thrust patterns can contribute to:

• Open bite patterns

• Teeth shifting forward

• Orthodontic relapse

• Speech distortions, especially “S” and “Z” sounds

• Difficulty keeping lips closed at rest

Addressing the muscle pattern early can support both speech clarity and long-term dental alignment.

Signs You Might Notice at Home

You may see:

• Tongue visible between teeth when swallowing

• A child who pushes food forward with their tongue

• Messy swallowing

• An open mouth posture at rest

• Persistent articulation differences

Many parents don’t notice the swallow pattern at all — and that’s completely normal.

It often takes a trained eye to assess what’s happening.

Can Children Grow Out of Tongue Thrust?

This is one of the most common questions.

Some mild patterns improve with growth.

But when a tongue thrust pattern is well-established — especially alongside orthodontic concerns — it often requires direct intervention to retrain the muscle pattern effectively.

The earlier it’s addressed, the easier it is to correct.

What Does Tongue Thrust Therapy Involve?

As a speech-language pathologist, I evaluate:

• Resting tongue posture

• Swallow pattern

• Lip closure

• Oral muscle coordination

• Speech production

Therapy focuses on building consistent, functional muscle habits — not just occasional exercises.

The goal is to help your child develop:

• Proper resting posture

• Efficient swallow patterns

• Clear speech production

• Support for orthodontic stability

It is structured, supportive, and individualized.

When Should You Seek an Evaluation?

Consider an evaluation if:

• Your orthodontist has mentioned tongue thrust

• Your child has an open bite

• Speech distortions persist

• You’re unsure whether a swallow pattern is affecting dental development

An evaluation provides clarity and a plan — even if therapy isn’t needed.

Tongue Thrust Therapy on Long Island

I work with families across Long Island to assess and treat tongue thrust patterns in children.

If you’re unsure whether this applies to your child, you’re welcome to reach out.

You can learn more or schedule an evaluation at:www.allislandspeech.com

Or contact:Lori@allislandspeech.com516-776-0184

Sometimes small muscle patterns make a big difference.

And early awareness helps protect both speech and smiles.