This advice-column-style blog for SLPs was authored by Pam Marshalla from 2006 to 2015, the archives of which can be explored here. Use the extensive keywords list found in the right-hand column (on mobile: at the bottom of the page) to browse specific topics, or use the search feature to locate specific words or phrases throughout the entire blog.
When to Refer to Orthodontia and ENT
By Pam Marshalla
Q: You mentioned orthodontic referral in one of your lectures on the lisps and R. I am wondering if you also refer to ENTs for issues relating to and resulting from mouth breathing.
I follow standard practices in SLP. Therefore I refer clients to orthodontics when there are indications that a dental malocclusion may exist, and when it seems to be interfering with sound production. I refer clients to an ENT when there are indications that there may be upper respiratory problems, undiagnosed oral structural issues, etc., that may be interfering with speech development.