DDS
A quick tutorial for dental professionals
What should I know before referring my patients for “tongue thrust?”
Q: Should I send my tongue thrust patients to a speech pathologist?
A: Speech pathologists do not automatically receive training about orofacial myology within their undergraduate or graduate education. In fact, it is quite rare to find a university that teaches any aspect of this specialty area. Thus, it is not necessarily going to solve your patients’ problems by sending them to a speech pathologist arbitrarily. They must have had continuing education courses that teach the connection of malocclusions, orthodontic basics, correct oral rest postures, chewing, swallowing, and more. The American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) has determined criteria for members wishing to treat orofacial myology clients.
Q: Who is elegible to offer tongue thrust/ orofacial myology treatment?
A: DDs, Speech Pathologists, and RDHs are all eligible to become certified orofacial myologist.
Q: What is involved in the certification process?
A: Requirements include having attended a 28 hour course, completed and passed a proficiency examination, and having passed an onsite evaluation from a member of the Board of Examiners of the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM). At that time, they are granted a C.O.M., certification of orofacial myology.
Q: How do I know which professional to send them to?
A: Ideally, they should be certified in orofacial myology. Since there are many areas of the United States and Canada that don’t have certified therapists, you must determine that they have had at least the basic 28 hour course and that they remain state of the art in diagnosis and treatment. When you go to www.OrofacialMyology.com, you will find multiple questions and answers about the many aspects of orofacial myology disorders. You can use this information to help you select the most competent therapist.
Q: How can my practice benefit from referring patients for orofacial myology?
A: To learn of the benefits of orofacial myology and the various conditions for which you would refer patients for treatment, see the article by Dr. Robert M. Mason, DMD, PhD at
