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Bite Reflex While Toothbrushing

Posted by Debra C. Lowsky, MS, CCC-SLP on 23rd Mar 2018

Question:  My 12 year old son has severe Tourette syndrome, and sensory issues.  Recently, he's developed a "biting" tic.  He bites down HARD on anything he puts in his mouth.  Brushing his teeth has become impossible.  He bites down so hard on the toothbrush, I'm afraid he will break a tooth!  Plus it's incredibly painful.  Do you make a "biteable" toothbru …
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Tips for Toothbrushing with Oral Defensiveness

Posted by Debra C. Lowsky, MS, CCC-SLP on 25th Oct 2012

Oral defensiveness falls into two main categories: HYPOsensitivity and HYPERsensitivity.  Individuals with hyposensitivities have low oral tone and very little awareness of what's going on inside their mouths.  This "oral numbness" so to speak can cause anxiety and fear when it comes to toothbrushing.  On the other hand, individuals with hypersensitivities are overly conscious of …
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