Tongue Thrust - Tongue thrust is one
of several terms describing a
swallowing pattern in which the individual pushes
the tongue against or
between the teeth. It also refers to inappropriate
forward tongue placement
at rest or during speech.
This disorder has been referred to in the literature
as deviant swallow, reverse swallow,
oral myofunctional disorder, visceral
swallow, and abnormal swallow.
Typically, the tongue rests with the tip
against the roof of the mouth and the
body of the tongue touching the molars. When a swallow
occurs, the tongue
pushes up and back to clear the saliva. Any deviation
from this pattern may
indicate tongue thrust.