Speech & Language Therapy for Tongue Thrust
in West Bloomfield, MI

Are you noticing your child struggles to pronounce “s” and “z” sounds? Or frequently catching them with their mouth open rather than closed? These observations might be signs of tongue thrust, a condition that, if left untreated, can lead to mouth breathing, communication difficulties, shifting teeth, and other developments.

At Gigi’s Kids Speech & Language Therapy, we understand how much you want to see your child flourish in life — which is why our dedicated team carefully caters to your child’s needs through a personalized plan designed to unlock empowering results. Here, your child’s confidence can bloom.

What Is Tongue Thrust?

Tongue thrust is a condition where the tongue pushes against or between teeth while talking, eating, drinking, swallowing, or resting. During the first six months of childhood, a tongue thrust is a natural reflex that helps a child nurse and avoid either aspirating milk (having milk go down the airway) or choking on food or objects.

Sometimes, tongue thrusting becomes a habit that continues beyond six months. If your child is older than six months and showing signs of tongue thrust, it is time to treat the condition before it leads to speech-language, feeding or developmental challenges.

At Gigi’s Kids, you and your child will team up with a specialized therapist who will listen to your observations and interact with your child in a friendly environment to understand their needs. If the diagnosis is tongue thrust, your child’s therapist will craft a personalized treatment plan filled with fun, child-led exercises. Sessions and homework will help your child learn how to move and rest their tongue to improve speech, protect teeth, strengthen facial muscles, and train chewing, drinking, and swallowing biomechanics.

Common Signs of Tongue Thrust

If you are curious about whether or not your child is facing challenges from tongue thrust, here are some common signs you can look out for:

Struggles saying “s” and “z” sounds
Has teeth shifting before or after braces
Keeps mouth open throughout the day
Experiences low-quality sleep
Feels jaw or facial fatigue
Faces challenges while eating, drinking, or swallowing
Displays low confidence when speaking or smiling

Common Causes of Tongue Thrust

Here are a few common causes of tongue thrust:

Prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier usage, or bottle feeding
Habits that affect the tongue position and movement
Mouth breathing due to persistent nasal blockage
Tongue resting on the bottom of the mouth instead of the top
Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
High or narrow palate
Tongue tie

How Does Pediatric Speech & Language Therapy Treat Tongue Thrust?

At Gigi’s Kids, we are committed to helping your child overcome tongue thrust so they can thrive in life. Through engaging, evidence-based techniques informed by your child’s specific needs and goals, your child will discover how to move and position their tongue in ways that improve speaking, socializing, eating, sleeping, and more.

Our small but homey practice is where essential instructions for development become a playful, child-led learning experience. We will work together in a comfortable environment where your child feels seen, understood, and empowered as they learn and acquire their new skills.

Wherever your child is on their journey with tongue thrust, our compassionate team is here to pave a path to success and celebrate their progress every step of the way.

Get Started at Gigi’s Kids Today