MAXIMUM PROTRUSIVE TONGUE FORCE IN HEALTHY YOUNG ADULTS.

In clinical speech-language pathology practice, tongue force is usually evaluated qualitatively. Perception and practical experience are used to classify this force. The Biomechanical Engineering Group from the Federal University of Minas Gerais developed an instrument to quantify tongue force.

Protrusive tongue strength in people with severely weak tongues.

The purpose of the study was to quantify tongue protrusion force and compare its characteristics between participants with severely weak tongues and those with normal lingual strength. The sample consisted of 11 participants with severe lingual strength deficits and 11 age- and sex-matched participants with normal lingual strength. Tongue force was evaluated quantitatively using the Forling instrument, and the average force, maximum force, average force application rate, and area under the graphic curve were analysed.

Quantitative evaluation of tongue protrusion force.

The tongue plays an important role in the functions of speech, mastication, swallowing, and breathing. The tongue helps in the maintenance of proper dental alignment and arch stability. Adequate strength is essential for the tongue to perform these tasks.