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Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy(OMT) can be defined as physical therapy for the oral and facial musculature which is used to identify and address orofacial myofunctional disorders(OMDs).

In simple terms, I like to describe it as physiotherapy for the face, mouth, lips and tongue!

Myofunctional Therapy is all about re-programming your default patterns and changing habits, behaviours and muscle patterns to improve the way you breathe, chew, swallow, sleep, speak and rest your tongue. Myofunctional disorders may include: mouth breathing, snoring, atypical swallowing pattern(tongue thrust), atypical chewing, restricted tethered oral tissues(tongue/lip ties), lip incompetence(lips apart) and oral habits(thumb sucking/nail biting).

Our Myofunctional Therapy Wellness programs provide customized orofacial myofunctional exercises to rehabilitate the oral and facial muscles related to proper tongue placement, breathing, speaking, chewing, swallowing and facial development.

In children, myofunctional therapy helps to instil healthy habits for life. Poor functional patterns such as an incorrect oral rest tongue posture, tongue thrust (reverse swallow) pattern, open mouth breathing, restricted tongue/lip ties, lack of chewing or low muscle tone all restrict facial growth and development.

In adults, poor breathing habits such as mouth breathing is a consequence of having a low tone or a restriction in mobility and function of the tongue. Myofunctional therapy can be beneficial for those suffering from TMD/ TMJ pain, head and neck tension, headaches, clenching & grinding, poor posture and obstructive sleep apnea.

Myofunctional therapy helps to address the “root cause” of problems, not just the symptoms. The first step is to identify any compensations of the jaw and the neck during chewing, talking, and swallowing to help to alleviate pain and dysfunction.

The Goals Of Myofunctional Therapy

  1. Lip Seal at Rest
  2. Proper Oral Rest Posture
  3. Exclusive Nasal Breathing 
  4. Establish the Correct Swallowing Pattern

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) are any atypical muscle patterns of the orofacial complex.  An improper balance or habit of these muscles may affect facial growth and development, breathing, speech, chewing, swallowing, dental development, stability of orthodontic treatment, facial tone and more. 

Common symptoms of untreated OMDs include:

As Orofacial Myologist, we identify and address orofacial concerns. Following an OMT evaluation, a tailored OMT therapy program will be designed to meet your individual needs. Treatment length will vary depending on the severity of the disorder(s).  Lighthouse Dental Care provides services with a multi-disciplinary team approach and works alongside many qualified professionals that have a broad understanding of orofacial myofunctional therapy.

Our goal is to provide you with exceptional customized Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy to suit your individual needs

Visit www.backtoyourrootsomt.ca to book your appointment.

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