What is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofucntional therapy can be also be known as orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT), tongue thrust therapy or simply just ” myo”. It is an exercise program that works to restore normal function of the orofacial muscles. ” ORO” means mouth, ” MYO” means muscles and ” facial” means face
Our primary objective is to enhance strength and coordination of the muscles in the tongue, mouth, and face. Additionally, we strive to rewire and establish new, healthy neuromuscular connections to foster positive habits and patterns within these areas.
Why have i never heard of Myofunctional Therapy before?
Orofacial Myofucntional Therapy (OMT) is not a “new” concept, but it is probably something that you are just learning about. Literature dates back to the late 1800 supporting facial and airway development . In recent years, OMT has gained significant attention and popularity, primarily driven by a notable rise in the publication of validated research studies supporting its efficacy.
What are Orofacial Myofucntional Disorders? (OMD’s)
OMT works to restore NORMAL fucntion of the orofacial muscles. But what is ABNORMAL?
- Mouth Breathing
- Open Mouth Resting Posture
- Incorrect Resting Posture ( Where the tongue rest low in the mouth rather then being lightly suctioned to the roof of the mouth)
- Incorrect Swallowing pattern ( tongue thrust swallow, reverse swallow)
- Poor sleep/ chronic fatigue
- Brain Fog
- Acid reflux
- TMJ pain
- Anxiety/ Depression
- Irritability
- Snoring
- Sleep Apnea
- Poor posture
- Neck and Back pain
- Frequent Upper Respiratory infections
- Chronic allergies
- Dental Decay or Gum Disease
- Bed wetting
- ADHD symptoms
- Teeth movement after braces or Jaw surgery
- Facial Asymmetry
While these concerns may appear insignificant at first glance, they can actually have significant consequences on our overall health and well-being. If left unaddressed, Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) can lead to detrimental effects on dental health, as well as hinder proper facial and airway development in children. As adults, these issues can further manifest as disrupted sleep, impaired speech, compromised mental health, hormonal imbalances, digestive problems, oral health issues, and chronic pain such as TMJ disorders, headaches, facial pain, and Sleep Breathing Disorders.
The four Goals of Myofucntional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy targets Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) by addressing orofacial muscle patterns. The primary goal is to optimize airway health, with additional benefits including improved airway function and overall well-being.
- Nasal breathing
- Lip Seal
- Proper Tongue Posture
- Correct Swallow Pattern
Benefits of Myofuntional Therapy
By achieving the four goals of Myofucntional therapy, many expereince improvement in their quality of life such as:
- Improve sleep
- Improved breathing
- Reduced Nasal congestion
- Reduced Allergies and Asthma Symptoms
- Reduce Headhaces/ Migraines
- Improved Attention Span
- Reduce or Eliminated TMJ Pain
- Improved posture
- Improve speech
- More stable Orthodontic and Jaw Surgery Outcomes
Myomindset 