How is OMD diagnosed?
OMD is often diagnosed by a team of professionals. In addition to the child and his or her family or caregivers, the team may include: • a dentist • an orthodontist • a physician • a speech-language pathologist (SLP) Both dentists and orthodontists may be involved when constant, continued tongue pressure against the teeth interferes with normal tooth eruption and alignment of the teeth and jaws. Physicians rule out the presence of a blocked airway (e.g., from enlarged tonsils or adenoids or from allergies) that may cause forward tongue posture. SLPs assess and treat the effects of OMD on speech, rest postures, and swallowing. To contact a speech-language pathologist, visit ASHA’s Find a Professional.
