Tongue Thrust

What is a tongue thrust?

A tongue thrust occurs when your tongue is pushing against the front teeth when you swallow, speak, or rest your tongue. It can also be called a reverse swallow or an immature swallow. Babies use a tongue thrust swallow until around 6 months of age. At 6 months, babies start to learn the correct way to swallow (where the tongue tip pushes up against the roof of the mouth during swallows). If your child continues to have a tongue thrust after they are 12 months old, they are more likely to have an open bite and an interdental lisp. Continued use of a bottle, pacifier, sippy cup, or thumb sucking after 12 months old can increase the likelihood of a tongue thrust.

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