Mastication (chewing) is a fundamental oral-motor function that plays a key role in speech development.

From a speech therapy perspective, mastication:

• Strengthens the jaw, tongue, and facial muscles
• Improves coordination within the oral cavity
• Supports proper movement patterns used in speech

Difficulties in chewing can impact:

• Speech clarity
• Saliva control
• Oral motor coordination

This is why many speech therapy programs include chewing exercises as part of oral motor training.