Analysis of Tongue Function from the Orthodontist’s Point of View: Not Only a Matter of Deglutition

Many studies report that maxillofacial growth is influenced by genetic and environmental elements incorrect breathing, chewing, sucking, swallowing are promoting factors of malocclusion. This study aims to evaluate the function influence tongue positions in patients with Angle class III malocclusion, maxillary hypoplasia, posterior crossbite. One hundred patients, aged between 6 12 years old, were enrolled for study. In first group, a diagnosis affected skeletal III, dental crossbite recruited. control not treated no I, without selected. Regarding atypical deglutition, statistical differences reported two groups, 14% ankyloglossia. Statistical found rest position during execution “hold pull” “chuck” exercises. Results obtained this observational showed clinician (orthodontist or general dentist) should analyze presence/absence swallowing, anatomical functional aspects, behavior position.