Have you ever wondered how the movement of the tongue when swallowing influences the position of our teeth? It’s more crucial than it seems! In this article, we’ll explain in simple terms how this process can impact dental alignment and how speech therapists and orthodontists work together to keep our smiles in their best shape.
The movement of the tongue when swallowing and its effect on the smile:
Imagine swallowing as a kind of dance in the mouth, where the tongue is the main star. As it turns out, in addition to pushing food downwards, the tongue exerts a constant pressure on the teeth, influencing their position. This effect is more pronounced in children, whose teeth are still in the process of growth. So, if the tip of your tongue when swallowing pushes against the teeth, it’s here where the force of this movement occurs. Over the years, the continued impact of the tongue on the teeth will cause them to shift, affecting both aesthetics and functionality.
Why collaboration between speech therapists and orthodontists is very important:
When swallowing is not as perfect as it should be, it can affect dental alignment and the bite. This is where we, the speech therapists, come in. Our work includes:
How Speech Therapy and Orthodontics work together for a healthy smile:
In summary:
The tongue and swallowing play a key role in dental health, and the collaboration between speech therapists and orthodontists is the key to maintaining healthy and beautiful smiles. If you ever wonder about the position of your tongue when swallowing, or if your orthodontist recommends visiting a speech therapist, don’t hesitate to contact us! We’re here to make your smile shine.
Proper pronunciation is essential for effective communication, but for some individuals, pronouncing the letter "r"…
Proper pronunciation is essential for effective communication. At times, we may encounter challenges in pronouncing…
The voice is one of the most valuable tools we possess, and often, we take…
Have you noticed that your voice sounds hoarse, weak, or even strained? Do you feel…
The human voice is an essential element of communication, allowing us to express our thoughts…
Swallowing is the process of moving food from the mouth to the stomach. Atypical swallowing…