In the oral cavity, movement of the tongue in relation to palatal shape is important for smooth speech and swallowing activities. The present study analyzed adaptation of tongue force in relation to palatal shape, based on palatolingual contact pressure as measured by a force-sensor-mounted symmetrical and asymmetric palatal plate. Results showed that during speech and swallowing, the action point of tongue force corresponded to the central aspect of palatal shape. But during swallowing, tongue force differed between the symmetrical and asymmetric palatal shapes at 107 and 341 gw, respectively. These findings show that the tongue moves in relation to the central aspect of palatal shape during speech and swallowing in order to adapt to changes in palatal shape, but that tongue force adaptation differs between speech and swallowing activities.
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