The Surprising Role of Tongue Position in Your Child’s Dental Health

When we think about dental health, most of us picture brushing, flossing, and regular checkups. But did you know that your child’s tongue posture—where and how their tongue rests in the mouth—can have a big impact on how their smile develops?

At Doctor Sugar Pediatric Dentistry in Paradise Valley, AZ, we take a holistic view of your child’s oral health, which includes paying attention to the way their tongue moves and rests. Here’s why it matters.

What Is Tongue Posture?

Tongue posture refers to the position of the tongue when the mouth is at rest. Ideally, the tongue should rest gently against the roof of the mouth, not on the bottom or pushed against the teeth.

This natural resting position helps:

Support proper jaw development

Maintain open airways

Prevent crowding or misalignment of teeth

Poor Tongue Posture and Its Effects

When the tongue doesn’t rest in the correct position—often due to habits like mouth breathing or thumb sucking—it can affect how the face and jaws grow. Over time, poor tongue posture can contribute to:

Narrow dental arches

Crooked or crowded teeth

Speech delays or lisping

Sleep-disordered breathing

In some cases, a condition called tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) can restrict tongue movement, affecting posture and function.

What Parents Can Watch For

It can be tricky to spot improper tongue posture, but signs may include:

Mouth breathing, especially during sleep

Open-mouth posture at rest

Snoring or restless sleep

Difficulty with certain speech sounds

Frequent teeth grinding

If you notice any of these signs, a consultation with a pediatric dentist in Paradise Valley, AZ is a smart next step.

Supporting Healthy Development

Our team at Doctor Sugar Pediatric Dentistry works closely with families to identify oral habits that may impact development. In some cases, early intervention—such as myofunctional therapy, orthodontics, or a tongue-tie release—can support healthier outcomes.

Tongue posture might seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in your child’s long-term dental health. If you have questions or concerns, we’re here to help.

Schedule a visit today and let us guide your child toward a healthy, confident smile from the inside out.