Signs of Tongue Thrust in Infants: When Should Greeley Parents Be Concerned?

As parents, you always want the best for your baby’s health and development. One issue that often goes unnoticed is infant tongue thrust. This condition occurs when a baby pushes their tongue forward in an unusual way, often during feeding, swallowing, or even while resting. It’s natural to wonder if this is something to be concerned about or if it’s simply part of your baby’s development. 

Here’s what you need to know about tongue thrust in infants and when to seek help from a kids’ dentist.

What is Infant Tongue Thrust?

Infant tongue thrust happens when the tongue protrudes from the mouth, typically pushing forward between the teeth or lips. It’s not uncommon for newborns to show some degree of this behavior, especially while breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. 

However, when this continues beyond the expected age or interferes with eating and speech, it might indicate an issue that requires attention.

How Do You Know If Your Baby Has Tongue Thrust?

Recognizing tongue thrust in infants can be tricky, especially since it’s natural for babies to push their tongues out occasionally. Still, there are some clear signs to watch for. 

Here’s what you might notice:

• Prolonged tongue pushing: If your baby continually pushes their tongue out during feeding or at other times.
• Difficulty latching: Babies with tongue thrust may have trouble latching onto the breast or bottle properly, which can lead to poor feeding.
• Unusual swallowing patterns: A baby may show an exaggerated forward tongue movement while swallowing, making feeding messy or inefficient.
• Mouth breathing: Babies with tongue thrust might breathe through their mouth more than normal, especially during sleep or feeding.
• Fussiness or discomfort: Babies may appear uncomfortable or fussy while feeding due to difficulty coordinating their tongue movements.

When Should Parents Be Concerned About Tongue Thrust?

While some degree of tongue thrust is normal, there are times when it can be cause for concern. If your baby is older than six months and continues to push their tongue out regularly, it might be time to consult a kids’ dentist in Greeley. 

Here are some additional red flags:

• Persistent tongue thrust beyond 12 months: If the behavior continues as your baby grows, it may be a sign that the tongue thrust is not simply part of normal development.
• Feeding difficulties: Babies with tongue thrust often have trouble feeding, which can impact their growth and nutrition.
• Speech delay: If tongue thrust affects the development of oral motor abilities, it can lead to speech problems as your child gets older.
• Teeth or bite issues: Over time, improper tongue posture can lead to dental problems, such as an open bite, where the upper and lower teeth don’t meet properly.

What Causes Tongue Thrust in Babies?

There are various reasons why an infant may develop tongue thrust. Understanding the cause can help guide your response:

• Oral or facial muscle development: Some babies may simply have weaker oral muscles, which leads to improper tongue movement.
• Feeding issues: If a baby struggles to latch correctly or feed properly, they may develop tongue thrust as compensation.
• Structural issues: Sometimes, a structural issue like a tight frenulum (the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth) can contribute to tongue thrust.
• Habit: In some cases, the baby may form a habit of pushing their tongue out, especially if they continue to do so during feeding or sleeping.

Can Tongue Thrust Affect Your Child Later in Life?

Yes, if tongue thrust persists beyond infancy, it can have lasting effects on your child’s development. 

Some potential long-term impacts include:

• Dental concerns: Tongue thrust can contribute to dental problems such as an open bite, misaligned teeth, and improper jaw growth.
• Speech issues: Since the tongue is vital for speech, a constant thrusting motion can lead to articulation problems and delays in speech development.
• Difficulty with oral hygiene: Children with tongue thrust may also struggle with maintaining proper oral hygiene due to their mouth structure, increasing the risk of cavities or gum disease.

How Can Tongue Thrust in Infants Be Treated?

Treatment for tongue thrust largely depends on its severity and the age of the child. If your baby has trouble feeding or seems to have a persistent tongue thrust, it’s best to seek guidance from a pediatrician or a kids’ dentist. 

Here are some common treatment options:

• Oral therapy: A pediatric dentist or therapist may recommend exercises to strengthen the tongue and improve oral motor abilities. These exercises can help promote proper tongue posture and swallowing.
• Feeding adjustments: If your baby is struggling with latching or feeding, a lactation consultant or pediatrician can help with techniques to improve feeding habits.
• Speech therapy: For older children, speech therapy can help address any speech or swallowing issues that arise due to tongue thrust.
• Dental intervention: If the condition leads to dental or bite problems, early orthodontic treatment may be necessary to prevent further complications.

When Should You See a Pediatric Dentist?

If you’re noticing signs of tongue thrust in your baby, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit with a pediatric dentist. Early intervention is key in addressing any potential oral issues before they develop into more significant concerns. A pediatric dentist can evaluate your baby’s mouth and provide advice or treatment recommendations to ensure healthy oral development.

If you’re concerned about how tongue thrust might affect your child’s future dental health, visiting a kids’ dentist is a helpful first step. They can work with you to develop a plan that supports your baby’s growth and development.

Tongue thrust is a common issue, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, it can be managed successfully. Keep an eye out for the signs, and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional guidance when needed.