Generally, no, you shouldn't constantly touch your teeth with your tongue. While occasional contact is normal, habitual or forceful touching can lead to dental problems.
Here's a breakdown:
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Resting Tongue Position: Your tongue should ideally rest on the roof of your mouth. As Dr. Ron Baise of 92 Dental explains, this is the proper resting position and avoids unnecessary pressure on your teeth.
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Potential Problems with Constant Contact:
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Malocclusion (Misalignment): Constant pressure from your tongue, especially against the back of your teeth, can gradually shift their position over time. This can lead to bite problems and the need for orthodontic treatment.
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Open Bite: If you consistently push your tongue forward against your front teeth, it can create an "open bite," where the upper and lower front teeth don't meet when you close your mouth.
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Speech Problems: In some cases, persistent tongue thrusting against the teeth can affect speech development.
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When is it Okay to Touch Your Teeth?
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Swallowing: Your tongue naturally presses against your teeth during swallowing. This is a normal function and not usually harmful.
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Cleaning: You might use your tongue to dislodge food particles after eating. However, this shouldn't be a substitute for proper brushing and flossing.
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If You Have a Habit of Touching Your Teeth:
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Awareness: Pay attention to how often you touch your teeth with your tongue.
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Tongue Exercises: Consult with a dentist or speech therapist for exercises that can help you train your tongue to rest in the correct position.
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Myofunctional Therapy: This type of therapy focuses on retraining the muscles of the face and mouth, including the tongue, to function correctly.
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In short, avoid habitually touching or pushing your teeth with your tongue to prevent potential dental problems. Proper tongue posture is key for maintaining good oral health.
