Chewing/Swallowing
In babies, prolonged dummy and bottle use, limited mouth play, a soft food diet, a highly processed diet can all alter the foundation of a correct swallow.
If children don’t develop a mature swallowing pattern all sorts of orthodontic concerns can arise. If the improper swallow is not addressed, orthodontic treatment can be slow and have a high chance of relapse.
Chewing and swallowing food incorrectly can lead to poor digestion, misaligned teeth, slow or relapsed orthodontic treatment, muscular imbalance and TMD (Jaw dysfunction and pain). Luckily, with chewing and swallow retraining through our program, we can begin to correct this dysfunction.
Understanding how chewing impacts craniofacial development is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health and facial structure. Chewing exercises the muscles and bones in the jaw, stimulating growth and development. Proper chewing promotes the expansion of the upper jaw, allowing sufficient space for teeth to erupt naturally and reducing the likelihood of crowding.
In children, consistent chewing of solid foods supports healthy jaw development, while in adults, maintaining strong chewing habits can help preserve bone density and prevent issues like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. For comprehensive craniofacial development, incorporating balanced chewing habits and seeking guidance from dental professionals or Myofunctional Therapists can ensure optimal oral health and facial symmetry over time.
