Susan Rowe M.S. CCC-SLP

Consequences of not addressing a dental muscular swallow disorder can be very harmful. They are as follows:
A. Nutritional deficits - Due to incorrect chewing food is not swallowed correctly resulting in frequent constipation, cramps of unknown origin
B. Aspiration- the most recent research now indicates that the #1 cause of aspiration pneumonia is poor oral hygiene. Due to poor chewing and swallowing leftover food remains in the oral cavity thus a source for harmful bacteria.
C. Psychological- Self image and self confidence are impacted when one has the look (open mouth rest posture) of diminished expression or lacking in brainpower. Current research shows teachers will call on and give attention to those who look interested and capable.
D.General growth and posture- The establishment of correct tongue rest posture and mouth closed respiration encourages all systems to work the way they are designed. The mouth will have proper humidification and the nose will act as a filter. Speech and the oral cavity for dental development will develop age appropriately.
E. Cosmetic- see item C.
F. Pain- Facial pain, TMJ, and posture problems are all related. If we don't teach a teeth apart rest posture , monitor thumb, finger, and clenching behaviors pain will be the result. Therapists always advocate to take an active role in the correction and treatment process not to only teach don't do it! One should be shown what to do and how to do it!
G. Speech, language and hearing disorders- Skeletal discrepancies , subtle craniofacial differences and muscle difficulties all can impact age appropriate speech .swallowing and hearing skills. The older population is not to be excluded. Years of not addressing chewing and swallowing issues will impact nutritional concerns later in life.
H. Respiratory Problems- see B

Back to FAQ's

Susan Rowe M.S. CCC-SLP
srowe@bcpl.net
http://www.lnetweb.com/speech/
410-337-7250
605 Baltimore Ave.
Towson, MD 21204