A Study of Changes in Swallowing Habit Resulting from Tongue Thrust Therapy Recommended by R. H. Barrett ^†

It was the purpose of this study to (1) select from the files of R.H. Barrett subjects who had been diagnosed as manifesting tongue thrust behavior, (2) evaluate the swallowing behavior of subjects who had successfully completed therapy at least five years prior to the study, and (3) evaluate the swallowing behavior of subjects who had declined therapy at least five years ago. Fifty subjects (median age = 17) who completed therapy and 30 age-matched subjects who had declined therapy were examined for swallowing behaviors and associated oral habits. Normal tongue function during swallowing was observed in 84% of the therapy group and 0% of the control group. According to clinic records, all subjects initially demonstrated incorrect resting tongue posture. Based on the current examination, 88% of the therapy group and 0% of the control group demonstrated correct resting tongue posture. The results of this study show that the majority of subjects who completed therapy with Barrett were successful in maintaining appropriate swallowing behaviors. The most significant factors involved in maintaining correct swallowing habits appeared to be the individual subject's habitual resting posture of the lips and tongue. [abstract constructed by N.P. Solomon, 4/2021]