Sorry if this is a little late, but I am behind on my mail.

What is the rest of this baby like? Is is just his/her mouth? I look at
muscle tone and strength, posture, reflexes and movement patterns, and
behavioral states. What does the suck assessment reveal? I also look at
tongue shape, position and mobility. Also at the baby's tone and range of
motion in the lips, cheeks, jaw and tongue. If you are not sure of how to
assess the WHOLE baby, find someone who can assist you in doing so, and
instruct you in infant assessment. Also, have you tried the simple firm tap
on the baby's upper chin right below the lower lip while opening your own
mouth and saying 'AHH". This should ellicit a  simple rooting response.
Please contact me by personal e-mail if you would like some additional
suggestions to release a tight jaw.

Debbie Rabin, OTR, CLC
Los Angeles, CA
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Jeanine- What a talented baby to latch to her daddy's stomach! Thanks for the
laugh out loud- I couldn't stop giggling all night; the mental picture was
priceless. :-)

Debbie Rabin, OTR, CLC
Los Angeles, CA