Myofunctional Therapy

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) involve issues with the muscles and functions of the face and mouth, potentially affecting a range of activities and functions including breastfeeding, facial skeletal growth, chewing, swallowing, speech, occlusion, temporomandibular joint movement, oral hygiene, orthodontic stability, and facial esthetics.

These disorders often stem from habitual nasal or oral breathing issues. The adaptation of the muscles and orofacial functions to these disordered breathing patterns can lead to a variety of OMDs. Such disorders may impact treatments provided by orthodontists, dentists, dental hygienists, speech-language pathologists, and other professionals in the orofacial domain.

A crucial aspect of OMDs is their effect on swallowing. Proper swallowing requires a harmonious relationship between the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat. When swallowing correctly, the tip of the tongue presses against the hard palate, just behind the front teeth, and works in coordination with other muscles involved in the process. The hard palate absorbs the force exerted by the tongue.

Given that a person swallows 500-2000 times a day, improper swallowing can lead to various issues. However, the resting position of the tongue, which is more constant, can cause the most significant damage.

Dental Issues Linked to Oral Myofunctional Disorders

When a person swallows incorrectly, the tip or sides of the tongue may press against or spread between the teeth, a condition known as tongue thrust. This constant pressure, whether from resting or incorrect thrusting, can shift teeth out of alignment and potentially hinder their eruption through the gums.

An Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder (OMD) can result in malocclusion, or misalignment between the upper and lower teeth. This misalignment can lead to challenges with biting, chewing, swallowing, and digesting food.

  • Illustrations courtesy of Swallow Productions, Linda Miller, RDH; Wichita, Kansas; 1986

    Tongue thrust refers to the habit of pressing the tongue against or between the teeth during swallowing.

  • Illustrations courtesy of Swallow Productions, Linda Miller, RDH; Wichita, Kansas; 1986

    When the tongue consistently pushes against or between the teeth, it prevents them from coming together properly, resulting in an open bite.

  • Illustrations courtesy of Swallow Productions, Linda Miller, RDH; Wichita, Kansas; 1986

    Misalignment or malocclusion of the upper and lower teeth can result in problems with biting and chewing food effectively.

Aesthetic Issues Linked to Oral Myofunctional Disorders

A noticeable sign of improper oral posture is often seen in the facial muscles. When these muscles aren't functioning properly, it can result in a dull, sluggish look and lips that appear full and weak.

Persistently parted lips, whether or not accompanied by mouth breathing, can also indicate this issue. Incorrect swallowing often causes a person to tighten and purse the muscles around the cheeks, chin, and lips, leading to what is known as a facial grimace. This overuse can give the chin a knobby appearance.

  • Illustrations courtesy of Swallow Productions, Linda Miller, RDH; Wichita, Kansas; 1986

    When facial muscles are out of balance, the face can appear dull and sluggish.

  • Illustrations courtesy of Swallow Productions, Linda Miller, RDH; Wichita, Kansas; 1986

    An improper swallow can cause the muscles of the cheeks, chin, and lips to tighten and purse, resulting in a facial grimace.

  • Illustrations courtesy of Swallow Productions, Linda Miller, RDH; Wichita, Kansas; 1986

    Mouth breathing or persistently open lips can indicate or contribute to tongue thrust and a low tongue rest posture.

Speech Problems that may develop from an Oral Myofunctional Disorders

Abnormal oral muscle patterns can cause issues such as a lisp or difficulty articulating sounds. Incorrect posture of the tongue and lips can hinder proper sound formation for normal speech. Additionally, improper oral muscle function may contribute to TMJ dysfunction, headaches, stomach distress from swallowing air, airway obstruction, and other health problems.

Sleep Disordered Breathing and Mild to Moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Recent research indicates that myofunctional therapy can help alleviate symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing, such as snoring, and improve mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Properly functioning and engaging the muscles of the tongue, throat, and face can help reduce airway obstruction.

  • Illustrations courtesy of Swallow Productions, Linda Miller, RDH; Wichita, Kansas; 1986

    Enlarged tonsils (shown in white) can obstruct the airway, leading to improper tongue positioning.

  • Illustrations courtesy of Swallow Productions, Linda Miller, RDH; Wichita, Kansas; 1986

    Thumb or finger sucking habits push the tongue into a low position, forcing it against the teeth.

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) addresses many causes of swallowing abnormalities and improper tongue rest posture.

This therapy is painless and involves relatively simple exercises. By activating and properly functioning certain facial muscles, other muscles will eventually coordinate, leading to improved tongue and facial muscle coordination. Success in this therapy requires daily exercise and commitment from both the patient and their family. Typically, treatment involves a structured exercise program over 6 to 12 months, though the duration may vary.

At Young Breath and Wellness, we have Myofunctional Therapists to provide in-office therapy for the most optimum treatment possible. Our sessions are one hour long with flexible appointments available.