Treatment of tongue thrust with hypnosis: two case histories

Tongue thrust is a relatively infrequent habit which can result in disruptive, permanent oral malocclusion, bone changes, and facial disharmony. The use of hypnotic phenomena can augment myofunctional therapy. Temperature control, glove anesthesia, relaxation, and imagery enhance demonstration of the proper way to swallow. The cornerstone of having the patient actually feel the contraction at the insertion of the masseter muscles provides an inner biofeedback which provides a very positive signal that the improper habit is being corrected. Hypnosis can then be used in the manner described to achieve a good clinical result.