Myofunctional therapy, also known as orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT), is a specialized treatment that focuses on training the muscles of the face, mouth, and tongue to function correctly. By performing targeted exercises, this therapy helps improve functions like breathing, swallowing, chewing, and speaking. It is often used to treat orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs), which involve abnormal muscle movement and resting patterns in the mouth and facial area.
This therapy is designed to help the different parts of the mouth — the jaws, lips, teeth, and tongue — work together harmoniously. Common conditions that myofunctional therapy can address include:
Myofunctional Therapy helps individuals retrain their breathing patterns to promote nasal breathing, which is the body’s optimal breathing method. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma, chronic allergies, or anxiety, as these conditions can lead to overbreathing (hyperventilation) and improper oral posture.
Myofunctional therapy supports the muscles in the throat and tongue to reduce airway obstruction during sleep.
This condition affects swallowing, speech, and tooth position by causing the tongue to push against or between the teeth.
Myofunctional therapy can alleviate jaw pain and improve jaw function in people with temporomandibular joint disorders, including those suffering from hypermobility disorders.
Strengthening facial muscles can help correct posture where the mouth remains slightly open at rest.
Myofunctional therapy can reduce teeth grinding, which can cause headaches and jaw discomfort.
Myofunctional therapy involves a series of exercises tailored to the individual's needs. These exercises are designed to strengthen the muscles in the mouth and face while improving awareness of their movements. Common techniques include:
Therapists may even incorporate fun activities like singing or playing wind instruments to engage muscles in new ways. Treatment plans typically last between six and twelve months, with regular sessions guided by a trained professional.
Myofunctional therapy is suitable for children, adolescents, and adults. It is not recommended for babies or toddlers, as the exercises require the ability to follow specific instructions- for that age group, we have a different approach!
If you or your child experience issues with breathing, swallowing, speech, or jaw function, myofunctional therapy may be a helpful solution.
Some of the key benefits include:
Research shows that myofunctional therapy can significantly reduce the severity of obstructive sleep apnea and improve the quality of life for individuals with sleep-disordered breathing. It is a safe and effective treatment option with no known risks.
If you are struggling with breathing, swallowing, or facial muscle issues, myofunctional therapy could be the solution you need. Contact us to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve better oral and facial health.
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Phone (602) 699-5983 - Fax (480) 605-2287
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