What is Oral Processing?
Oral sensory processing refers to the way that the brain interprets and uses information from the mouth and tongue, which are important for eating, speaking, and other activities involving the mouth. The oral sensory system includes the muscles, tissues, and nerve endings in the mouth and tongue, as well as the sense of touch, taste, and temperature.
Problems with oral sensory processing can lead to a variety of symptoms, including difficulty with feeding and eating, difficulty with speaking and communicating, and difficulty with oral motor skills (such as blowing bubbles, sucking through a straw or making certain sounds). These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including sensory processing disorders, developmental delays, and physical abnormalities.
There are a variety of signs that may indicate that a person is experiencing oral sensory processing difficulties. Some common signs include:
Difficulty with feeding and eating:
This may include difficulty swallowing, gagging, or refusing to eat certain textures or types of food.
Difficulty with oral motor skills:
This may include difficulty blowing bubbles, making certain sounds, or using utensils.
Difficulty with speech and communication:
This may include difficulty with articulation, verbal expression, or understanding spoken language.
Oral hypersensitivity:
This may include a strong dislike of certain textures or tastes, or a sensitivity to temperature or texture in the mouth.
Oral hyposensitivity:
This may include a lack of sensitivity to temperature or texture in the mouth, or a desire to put non-food items in the mouth.
Oral processing difficulties are also related to picky eating.
Picky eating can be a common issue in children, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including sensory processing difficulties. The oral sensory system, which includes the muscles, tissues, and nerve endings in the mouth and tongue, as well as the sense of touch, taste, and temperature, plays a crucial role in feeding and eating behaviors.
Children with oral sensory processing difficulties may have difficulty with certain textures or tastes, or they may be sensitive to temperature or texture in the mouth. They may also have difficulty with oral motor skills, such as swallowing or using utensils. These difficulties can make it challenging for children to eat a variety of foods and can lead to picky eating behaviors.Treatment for oral sensory processing problems may involve a variety of approaches, including oral motor therapy, feeding therapy, and other interventions designed to improve oral motor skills and feeding habits. It is important to seek help from a healthcare professional if you suspect that you or a loved one may be experiencing problems with oral sensory processing. Early intervention can help individuals overcome these challenges and improve their ability to eat, speak, and interact with others.
