Have you ever wondered about the role of the back third of your tongue in oral health and facial development? Dr. Mew, a renowned orthodontist, has shed light on the importance of this often overlooked area. In this blog post, we will explore Dr. Mew’s insights and understand why paying attention to the back third of the tongue can have a significant impact on our overall well-being.
The Tongue: More Than Just Taste
While we often associate the tongue with taste, it serves a much greater purpose. Dr. Mew emphasizes that the tongue plays a crucial role in maintaining proper oral posture and facial development. The back third of the tongue, in particular, is responsible for exerting gentle upward pressure on the roof of the mouth, which helps in shaping the dental arches and promoting optimal facial growth.
The Importance of Nasal Breathing
Dr. Mew highlights the importance of nasal breathing for overall health and development. When we breathe through our nose, the air passes over the turbinates, which help filter, warm, and humidify the air. Nasal breathing also encourages the correct positioning of the tongue against the roof of the mouth, specifically the back third. This proper tongue posture aids in maintaining an open airway, preventing issues such as snoring, sleep apnea, and even facial asymmetry.
Implications for Orthodontics
Dr. Mew’s research has significant implications for orthodontics. He suggests that traditional orthodontic treatments, such as braces, often focus solely on aligning the front teeth, neglecting the importance of the back third of the tongue. This oversight can lead to relapse and compromised facial aesthetics.
Instead, Dr. Mew advocates for a holistic approach to orthodontics, which includes exercises and techniques to strengthen the tongue and encourage proper tongue posture. By addressing the underlying causes of malocclusion and facial asymmetry, this approach aims to provide long-lasting results and improved overall health.
Tongue Posture Exercises
Dr. Mew recommends several exercises to improve tongue posture and promote optimal oral and facial development. These exercises include:
- Swallowing with the tongue on the roof of the mouth, ensuring the back third is engaged.
- Chewing food thoroughly and consciously positioning the tongue against the palate during chewing.
- Performing tongue stretches by placing the tip of the tongue on the back of the top front teeth and gently pushing upward.
- Using a tongue scraper to maintain tongue cleanliness and encourage proper tongue posture.
Conclusion
Dr. Mew’s insights into the significance of the back third of the tongue have opened up new possibilities in the field of orthodontics and facial development. By understanding the importance of maintaining proper tongue posture and engaging the back third of the tongue, we can take proactive steps towards improving our oral health and overall well-being.
Remember, it’s not just about taste; it’s about the holistic impact of the tongue on our facial structure and overall health. So, let’s give the back third of our tongue the attention it deserves!
