Pediatric Therapy for Tongue Thrust
in Dacula, Gainesville, Brookhaven, GA

Does your child’s tongue seem to poke out between their teeth when they speak or eat? When the tongue thrusts forward like this, it can create challenges in your child’s speech development, dental alignment, and even self-confidence. Thankfully, there is a simple way to correct it.

At Tender Ones Therapy Services, we use proven pediatric therapy techniques to address tongue thrust. Our experienced team is here to help your child develop healthy oral habits and achieve improved speech and confidence.

What Is Tongue Thrust?

Tongue thrust is a condition where the tongue rests or moves improperly during activities like swallowing, speaking, or even while at rest. Instead of staying against the roof of the mouth, the tongue pushes up against or slips between the teeth.

This condition can be caused by actions like thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use, or allergies that lead to mouth breathing. Addressing tongue thrust early can help prevent these complications and support your child’s healthy development.

What Can Happen if Tongue Thrust Is Left Untreated?

If left untreated, tongue thrust can contribute to several challenges for children, such as:

Difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, such as “s,” “sh,” or “ch”
Dental misalignment from the pressure the tongue exerts on the teeth at rest
Trouble with eating or swallowing due to the tongue’s position in the mouth
Chronic mouth breathing, which can impact facial growth and overall oral health.
Challenges with self-esteem due to speech difficulties or dental issues

How Pediatric Speech Therapy Can Treat Tongue Thrust

At TOTS, our speech therapists help children overcome tongue thrust with personalized and engaging treatment plans. First, we’ll determine the underlying causes of your child’s tongue thrust. Then we’ll use a variety of evidence-based techniques to address your child’s specific challenges.

As part of your child’s treatment, we may work on improving their oral motor skills while addressing any bad habits like thumb-sucking that can contribute to tongue thrust. We may also work on speech skills like articulation if these have been impacted by your child’s tongue thrust. We’ll also give you practical tips and strategies you can use at home to help reinforce your child’s progress.

Why Choose Tender Ones Therapy Services?

At Tender Ones Therapy Services, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional care to children. Here’s why families in Georgia choose us:

Comprehensive Care: Our therapists collaborate with each other and with your child’s healthcare team to provide the best treatment possible.
Intensive Treatment Options: We offer intensive therapy programs for children who need additional support in reaching their developmental goals.
Family-Centered Philosophy: We not only support your child in reaching their fullest potential, but we also support you and your family in any way we can.
Multiple Locations: We have clinics in Dacula, Gainesville, and Atlanta so your child can access the care they need.

Schedule an Evaluation with Our Team Today