Description
A press-fit oral-motor mouthpiece that attaches to a drinking straw, this device limits how far the straw enters the mouth and provides a bite stop, leaving only a small segment inside the oral cavity. By promoting a lip-driven seal with teeth closed, it helps discourage tongue thrust, supports tongue retraction and proper positioning, and builds lip seal, cheek activation, suction strength, and overall oral-motor coordination that underpins feeding and speech-related skills.
How it works
Insert the mouthpiece into the top of a standard straw and drink. Begin with the longest length and progress to shorter lengths to increase difficulty. At the 0.25 in (about 0.6 cm) setting, liquid is delivered more anteriorly for greater control and reduced risk of coughing. As lengths get shorter, the oral-motor workout intensifies, requiring more tongue retraction, a stronger lip seal, and greater cheek tension.
Variants and progression (shorter = harder)
- Long 0.75 in (about 1.9 cm) – yellow
- Medium 0.5 in (about 1.3 cm) – blue
- Short 0.25 in (about 0.6 cm) – turquoise/teal
- Flexible 0.75 in (orange) that can be trimmed shorter as skills improve
Compatibility
Fits most regular/standard-diameter drinking straws (about 0.25 in / 0.64 cm).
Materials and safety
- Medical-grade, FDA-compliant plastic; made in the USA
- Free of lead, phthalates, PVC, BPA, and latex
- Not a toy; use under adult supervision
Care and cleaning
- Dishwasher-safe and boilable
- Clean with mild soap or an aldehyde-free disinfectant
Suitable users and settings
Appropriate for children through adults, in therapy clinics or at home. Commonly used for individuals with low oral muscle tone or tongue protrusion/thrust as part of straw/oral-motor therapy under the guidance of a speech-language professional.
