Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
Correct Oral Posture
Incorrect Oral Posture
Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on the muscles and functions of the face and mouth. It addresses issues related to the orofacial complex, which includes the lips, tongue, jaw, and surrounding muscles. OMT aims to correct improper muscle patterns and dysfunctional habits that can affect speech, swallowing, and overall oral function. Leaving these issues uncorrected can actually change the structure of the face, as seen in the image above. Correcting these issues can ensure the facial structures grow and develop as they should.
Common issues addressed through orofacial myofunctional therapy include:
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Tongue Thrust: Incorrect tongue positioning during swallowing, which can lead to speech difficulties and dental malocclusions.
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Open Mouth Posture: Habitual mouth breathing or resting with the mouth open, which can impact oral health and facial development.
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Thumb Sucking: Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use that can affect dental alignment and speech clarity.
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Tongue Tie: Restricted movement of the tongue due to a tight frenulum, impacting speech, swallowing, and oral motor skills.
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Chewing and Swallowing Difficulties: Poor oral motor coordination affecting the ability to chew food properly and swallow safely.
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Speech Disorders: Articulation issues, lisps, and other speech sound errors related to orofacial muscle function.
Through targeted exercises, techniques, and behavioral interventions, orofacial myofunctional therapists help individuals improve muscle strength, coordination, and function in the orofacial region. This therapy can benefit both children and adults, addressing a wide range of issues to improve overall oral health, communication skills, and quality of life.
