Clinician-led innovation in pediatric feeding therapy: Custom bite-switch device

Children with complex medical histories and oral dysphagia often struggle to develop safe and functional chewing skills, particularly when hypersensitivity and anxiety limit participation. This article describes a patient case that led to the development and application of a custom food-grade bite-switch device designed to increase jaw strength, reduce fear of chewing, and support texture progression. The case involved a young boy with a rare genetic disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), failure to thrive, and long-standing oral dysphagia. The patient demonstrated limited jaw strength, avoidance of chewable textures, and strong motivation for a specific YouTube program.