CMT CMT Swallowing & Feeding Disorders

Question 1

What is the correct name for the mature swallowing pattern that myofunctional therapy aims to establish?

Accepted Answer

Somatic swallow

Answer

The somatic (or adult) swallow involves the tongue tip pressing against the palatal rugae, teeth together, and minimal facial muscle activation.

Question 2

During a normal adult swallow, where should the tongue tip make contact?

Accepted Answer

On the incisive papilla and anterior palate

Answer

In a correct somatic swallow, the tongue tip contacts the incisive papilla just posterior to the upper incisors, and the tongue body elevates against the palate.

Question 3

Tongue thrust swallowing is also known by which clinical term?

Accepted Answer

Visceral swallow

Answer

Tongue thrust swallowing is clinically termed the visceral or infantile swallow pattern, where the tongue pushes forward against or between the teeth during swallowing.

Question 4

Which dental malocclusion is most commonly associated with a persistent anterior tongue thrust swallow?

Accepted Answer

Anterior open bite

Answer

Persistent anterior tongue thrust exerts forward pressure on the incisors during each swallow, creating or maintaining an anterior open bite.

Question 5

How many times per day does the average person swallow, making swallowing pattern correction highly impactful?

Accepted Answer

300–500 times

Answer

The average person swallows approximately 500–700 times daily, meaning even minor dysfunctional patterns apply repetitive forces that significantly affect oral structures over time.

(CMT) Certified Myofunctional Therapist Practice Test

(CMT) Certified Myofunctional Therapist Practice Test

CMT CMT Swallowing & Feeding Disorders