When kids are young, every small habit influences how they grow. We notice the obvious ones first, like thumb sucking or grinding. But one habit is often missed even though it plays a huge role in how a child’s jaw and teeth develop: where the tongue rests.
Many children do not naturally keep their tongue lifted to the roof of their mouth. It might sit low instead, especially if they breathe through their mouth while awake or asleep. This simple shift can affect not only the smile but how the entire face matures. At Beyond Braces, we help Surrey families understand these changes early so they can support the healthiest development possible.
How the Tongue Guides Growth
The tongue is much stronger than people think. When it sits comfortably on the roof of the mouth, it helps the upper jaw grow wide enough to fit all adult teeth. This support keeps the bite balanced and allows the face to develop evenly.
If the tongue stays low most of the time, the cheeks may press inward on the upper jaw. Over the years, that pressure can narrow the arch, create crowding, and change the way the bite fits together. It may also encourage mouth breathing, which has been associated with dry lip, restless sleep, and uneven facial growth.
Parents often do not connect these changes to tongue posture because the signs show up slowly. Catching them early can make a big difference.
Small Clues Parents Can Watch For
When the tongue is not resting in a healthy position, you might notice:
- Mouth always slightly open
- Snoring or noisy breathing at night
- Chewing slowly or struggling with tougher food
- A narrow smile or crowded baby teeth
- Forward head posture
- Lips that don’t seal easily
These are not just cosmetic details. They may be signals that the jaw and airway are working harder than they should.
Why Early Guidance Helps
Childhood is the perfect time to pay attention to tongue posture and jaw development. Bones are still flexible, and gentle guidance can support natural growth. Without that support, issues like crossbites, deep bites, and crooked teeth may progress and require more involved treatment later.
A visit with an orthodontist in Surrey includes a look at tongue posture, breathing patterns, and how the jaw is shaping the face. Sometimes treatment isn’t needed right away, but a plan is helpful so parents know what to expect as their child grows.
We also collaborate with myofunctional therapists when needed. They help children learn healthy tongue and breathing habits, which can complement orthodontic care and improve long term results.
A Supportive Approach for Surrey Families
Orthodontics should never feel overwhelming. We take the time to explain each step, answer questions, and offer treatment options that fit your schedule and your child’s comfort. We know families want more than straight teeth. They want healthy breathing, better sleep, and a smile that feels natural.
If you have noticed mouth breathing, early crowding, or habits that seem a little off, we are here to help. Early guidance in jaw development can create lifelong benefits.
We would love to meet your family, take a friendly look at your child’s development, and share a plan that supports confident growth from childhood into the teen years.
Schedule a consultation with Beyond Braces in Surrey today and discover how early orthodontic guidance can support healthier breathing, better sleep, and a confident smile that lasts.