The most optimal resting posture for the tongue is the tongue tip at the incisive papilla with the rest of the tongue in a light suction to the roof of the mouth. The tongue is positioned up on the roof of our mouth, and directly behind our front teeth. This tongue placement allows adequate airflow […]
Thumb sucking is a common and natural phenomenon that occurs from birth until early infancy. However, this habit is typically eliminated by 6-7 months of age, as the sucking reflex subsides. If this habit is not eliminated, and your child continues to suck their thumb during toddler and school-aged years, there are oro-facial changes expected […]
An abnormal anterior motion of the tongue can cause difficulties with chewing, swallowing, and articulating certain sounds accurately. It can also cause malocclusions, which can lead to the need for orthodontic intervention. However, orthodontic intervention alone does not correct the abnormal anterior motion of the tongue. It is important to be conscious and aware of […]
Teeth grinding is a condition that involves the involuntary habit of grinding teeth or clenching the jaw. This condition affects a wide range of individuals and can happen during the day or at night. Night-time teeth grinding or clenching is considered more prevalent and often leads to dental disturbances, jaw discomfort, stiffness in the face, […]
Did you know that lingual strength is required for proper chewing and swallowing? Lingual muscles help move food within our mouths when we lateralize food from one side of the oral cavity to the other during mastication. Being able to masticate food appropriately allows us to break down the food enough to form a cohesive […]
What is the difference between nasal breathing and mouth breathing? Nasal breathing is proper breathing as it helps filter out allergens and dust in the environment and boosts your overall oxygen intake. Mouth breathing can contribute to reduced oral health and sleep quality, facial abnormalities, and speech distortions. Research has shown that open-mouth breathing affects […]
Spot Pal was designed to train the tongue into a proper resting position and to combat problems such as mouth breathing, snoring, poor sleep, and sucking habits! It does this through the use of the Spot Dot which provides a tactile cue for the tongue to rest on the roof of the mouth and Tongue […]
If you or someone you know currently receives myofunctional therapy, Spot Pal can be a great tool to help you achieve goals and move through the stages quickly. Myofunctional therapy is a type of therapy that aims to improve the strength, coordination, and balance of the muscles in the mouth and throat. This type of […]
The recommended age for the extinction of bottle use is 12 months of age, but a lot of times it can be a difficult transition. Although the bottle becomes a routine and comfort for the child, it can have harmful effects on their development if it is prolonged. Speech and oro-facial development are affected by […]
Did you know that the resting posture of the tongue and mouth can affect appearance? Improper resting posture can lead to differences within the mouth and even the way your face develops. When the tongue is resting too low within the mouth it can lead to a high and narrow palate and consequently reduces the […]