Why is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Important?
Myofunctional Therapy is important to achieve proper oral resting posture. Proper oral resting posture is defined as establishing lip competance (lips gently sealed all day and all night), nasal breathing (all day and night), along with your tongue resting in your palate (not the floor of your mouth). When you have this combination achieved through therapy, it helps to open up the airway. In comparison to having your tongue fall back into your throat and cutting off your airway while at rest.
What is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) also known as, Orofacial Myology, is a specialized treatment focusing on the proper function of the muscles in the face and mouth. By addressing Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMD) this therapy can enhance overall health. Benefits include improved breathing and better sleep quality.
Myofunctional Therapy uses a multidisciplinary approach with the support of a team to help treat all aspects of OMD's. Myofunctional Therapy is not a cure for OMD's and it may be necessary to see other specialist's (ENT, Orthodontist, Physical Therapist, or General Dentist) to help achieve optimal results.
What are Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders?
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders or OMD's are disorders of the muscles of the tongue, mouth, jaw, lips and face.
Types of OMD's
Mouth breathing - Day and/or night
Grinding/Clenching
Sleep Apnea
Snoring
TMJ Disorders (Jaw pain, muscle soreness, jaw locking)
Open Mouth Posture
Relapse of Orthodontic Treatment
Drooling
Non-Nutritive Habits (Thumb sucking, finger sucking, cheek biting, tongue biting, nail biting)
Difficulty Nose Breathing
Tongue-tie/Lip-tie
Dry Cracked Lips
Forward Head Posture
ADD/ADHD
Bed Wetting
