Did you know dentists and orthodontists often team up with Speech-Language Pathologists? (Speech-Language Pathologists are also referred to as SLPs and Speech Therapists!)
Dentists and orthodontists are experts in the structure and alignment of the mouth and teeth.
Speech Therapists are experts in how we use those structures to speak, eat, and breathe.
Here are a few reasons why a dentist or orthodontist might want a Speech Therapist to assist a client:
- Tongue thrust: Persistent tongue pushing against teeth can undo orthodontic progress. SLPs retrain swallowing patterns.
- Speech sounds: Braces or jaw alignment can affect how sounds are made. An SLP helps correct articulation (how our words sound).
- Mouth breathing: Often tied to oral posture and airway issues; speech therapy helps restore healthy breathing habits.
- Thumb sucking / oral habits: Breaking these habits protects orthodontic treatment results.
- Feeding & swallowing: Jaw or bite issues can affect chewing and swallowing; SLPs support safe, efficient eating.
At RSI, our therapists love working hand-in-hand with dentists and orthodontists to make sure every smile is not only straight, but strong, functional, and confident! Give us a call or shoot us a text if you suspect that your child might benefit from speech therapy.
Signs occupational therapy might be needed