My MouthWorks Program
What is tongue thrust?
Tongue Thrust is defined as any aberrant tongue placement while swallowing or at rest. The constant pressure of the tongue at rest against or between the teeth, along with the pushing of the tongue during swallowing, can force the teeth out of alignment. Articulation of certain sounds may also be affected by the postural position of the tongue.
What are the consequences of tongue thrust?
- Slowing & Possible Relapse of Orthodontic Treatment
- Dental Malalignment
- Unpleasant Chewing & Eating Appearance
- Soreness of the Back, Neck & Jaw
- Temporomandibular Joint Problems | TMJ
- Food Avoidance
- Increased Susceptibility to Cavities & Tooth Decay
What is TMJD?
A disorder of the jaw joint and muscles resulting from imbalanced muscle function and coordination.
Possible Signs and Symptoms of TMJD
- Grinding or clenching teeth
- Pain in the face, ears, and/or skull
- Pain/ clicking when chewing
- Change dentition, including shifting, spacing, and crowding
- Limited jaw range of motion
- Locking of the jaw
- Chipping, unusual wear of the teeth
Innovative Oral Solutions started the development of our Tongue Thrust and My MouthWorks Program, as well as the Oral Placement Appliance (OPA®), in 2007 and has been carefully designed in conjunction with orthodontists and provides proven methodology for effectiveness.
Treatment session is a 50 minute clinical hour. Program completion can vary based on severity and implementation of home carryover.
Typical program outline:
- One session per week (4 weeks)
- One session every two weeks (8 weeks)
- One session every month (3 months)
**Frequency subject to change, based on therapist recommendations **