The Link Between Tongue Posture and Jaw Development in Kids

Author: DrSensory

June 13, 2025

The Link Between Tongue Posture and Jaw Development in Kids

Tongue posture might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about your child’s oral development—but it’s foundational. The way your child’s tongue rests in their mouth can directly impact jaw alignment, facial growth, speech, and breathing.

In this article, we’ll explore how tongue posture affects jaw development, signs of improper habits, and how parents can support optimal oral growth in children.

What Is Proper Tongue Posture?

Definition

Proper tongue posture refers to how the tongue rests when your child is not talking or eating. Ideally:

The entire tongue should rest gently against the roof of the mouth (palate)
The tip should sit behind the upper front teeth (not touching them)
The mouth stays closed, promoting nasal breathing

Why It Matters:

Encourages wide palate development and room for permanent teeth
Supports balanced facial growth
Promotes clear speech and efficient swallowing
Reduces risks of mouth breathing, dry mouth, and snoring

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How Poor Tongue Posture Impacts Children

Signs of Improper Tongue Posture:

Tongue rests at the bottom of the mouth
Chronic mouth breathing
Open-mouth posture during rest
Visible strain while swallowing or chewing
Lisp or difficulty with “s,” “t,” “l,” or “th” sounds

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Poor Tongue Posture Can Lead To:

Narrow Palate & Crowded Teeth
- Without the tongue pressing against the palate, the upper jaw fails to expand properly
- Leads to crowding, crossbites, and orthodontic issues
Open Bite
- Tongue thrusting during swallowing or rest can cause the front teeth to not touch
- Results in difficulty with biting, chewing, and speech articulation
Facial Changes
- Prolonged low tongue posture can lead to a longer, narrower face
- May cause recessed jawlines, flat cheeks, and altered facial aesthetics
Speech and Airway Complications
- Misplaced tongue interferes with sound formation
- Increases risk of snoring, sleep apnea, and speech delays

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What Parents Can Do to Support Proper Tongue Posture

1. Model Correct Tongue Resting Position

Show your child how to:

Keep lips closed
Breathe through the nose
Rest the tongue on the palate at all times (except while eating/talking)

2. Encourage Nasal Breathing

Mouth breathing often results from allergies, enlarged tonsils, or chronic congestion
Use nasal saline sprays, air purifiers, or consult an ENT for further evaluation

3. Seek Myofunctional Therapy

A myofunctional therapist teaches kids to retrain tongue muscles, improve swallowing patterns, and encourage nasal breathing
Therapy can prevent orthodontic issues, improve speech, and optimize jaw development

4. Evaluate for Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie

Structural restrictions like a tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) can limit tongue mobility
A pediatric dentist or ENT can evaluate and suggest treatment if needed

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When to Seek Help from a Specialist

If you notice signs of improper tongue posture or suspect jaw development concerns, consult a:

Pediatric Dentist – for bite, palate, and growth evaluations
Myofunctional Therapist – for tongue, swallowing, and breathing retraining
ENT Specialist – for breathing and airway assessments
Speech Therapist – if speech sounds are affected

Early intervention leads to better long-term outcomes and may reduce or eliminate the need for extensive orthodontic treatment later.

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Key Takeaways

Tongue posture shapes the jaw, affects oral function, and influences facial development
Early awareness and correction help prevent long-term orthodontic and speech issues
Support from dental and therapy professionals can make a lasting impact

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🔍 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓ What is the correct resting position for the tongue?

The tongue should rest fully against the roof of the mouth with the tip near (not touching) the upper front teeth, while lips stay closed and breathing occurs through the nose.