A friend of mine was told by her daughter’s orthodontist that her daughter might need “swallowing therapy” because, when the daugher swallows, her tongue presses on the back of her teeth. Apparently, according to this orthodontist at least, it’s not supposed to do that.
Does anyone know if this is true, or is this doctor just trying to pull something?
I’ve reviewed my journals and can find no references to swallow therapy involving orthodontics. “Swallowing therapy” is a much-debated topic usually related to dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing) due to stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or other neuro-muscular disorders. Also, I’m pretty sure I press my tongue against my teeth when I swallow, and I’ve managed to live 29 years this way. 
If your friend is Canadian the scam would be obvious - therapists, grief counsellors, etc. etc. are provided free at government (taxpayers’) expense and therefore a lot of people see nothing wrong with using them at the drop of a hat. Everybody makes out like bandits and you are only ripping off the government. (sarcasm alert)
If she isn’t Canadian maybe your friend’s orthodontist knows about the details of her health insurance plan or employee benefit program. Ripping those off aren’t much worse than ripping off the government. (2nd sarcasm alert)
I’d say the first clue that it’s a scam is if the orthodontist knows your friend won’t be paying for it herself. That always makes it a lot easier on a professional’s conscience when he’s bill padding.