Myofunctional Therapy

Your tongue’s resting position plays a major role in how you talk, eat, look, and swallow. A special type of training, myofunctional therapy, can improve your oral health.

If your doctor or dentist diagnoses you with a myofunctional disorder, you may need to begin therapy. For more information about myofunctional therapy and how it can benefit you, contact AirwayOC today.

What Are Myofunctional Disorders?

Myofunctional disorders occur when your lips, jaw, or tongue affects the development and function of your mouth. The position of your tongue, lips, and jaw is important. When they are out of place, everyday functions can be affected, from chewing and swallowing to speech and facial structure.

How to Know If You Have a Myofunctional Disorder

A dentist or doctor can help you determine whether you have myofunctional disorder. There are several signs to look for, including:

• Misaligned teeth
• Stomach aches
• Sleep apnea
• Tongue thrusting
• Teeth grinding
• Speech difficulties
• Mouth breathing
• Facial pain

What is Myofunctional Therapy?

Every patient who comes in for myofunctional therapy will be given a unique plan. Each patient is different, and every case of a myofunctional disorder is unique. To give you the proper treatment, you will receive an individualized plan.

Through myofunctional therapy, you will work toward normalizing your tongue’s resting posture. If you have habits that contribute to myofunctional disorders, such as sucking your thumb, one of your goals will be to correct that issue.

We may also recommend completing these exercises at home to increase your muscle strength. At home, you will work on swallowing, breathing, and resting your tongue.

Over time, as you retrain your orofacial muscles, you will become more aware of them. With the proper therapy, you will achieve clearer speech, more efficient eating, and better sleep. Throughout your treatment, your progress will be evaluated to determine which steps are appropriate going forward and whether you need additional therapy.

To learn more about myofunctional therapy, contact AirwayOC today. Our friendly team is here to help and would be happy to answer your questions.