Myofunctional Therapy

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) are abnormal patterns of muscle function and coordination in the face and mouth. It can affect individuals of various age groups, including children, teenagers, and adults. OMDs may impact the normal growth and development of muscles and bones in the face and mouth, leading to difficulties in activities such as speaking, swallowing, sleeping, and breathing. These abnormal patterns can have consequences for overall facial and oral health. Early intervention is crucial for addressing these disorders and preventing potential complications.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders

Woman and child looking at each other and touching their own cheeks.

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is a specialized form of therapy designed to address and correct abnormal patterns of muscle function to improve coordination of orofacial musculature (e.g., tongue, lips, cheeks, jaw). Therapy can retrain and improve the strength, coordination, and function of the muscles involved in activities such as swallowing, chewing, speaking, sleeping, and breathing. Therapy is tailored to the specific needs of the individual, and the duration of therapy can vary depending on the severity of the Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder.

Assessment: Thoroughly evaluating the individual's orofacial muscles and functions to identify any abnormalities or dysfunctions. This assessment may involve observing oral habits, swallowing patterns, tongue posture, and speech.

Treatment Planning: Developing a personalized treatment plan based on the specific needs and challenges identified during the assessment. The plan may include a variety of exercises and activities aimed at retraining and improving muscle function.

Education: Providing education to the individual and, in many cases, their families about proper oral habits, lifestyle changes, and techniques to enhance orofacial muscle function.

Myofunctional Therapy Includes: Specialized exercises and activities designed to target and correct improper muscle patterns. These exercises are intended to promote optimal muscle function during activities such as swallowing, speaking, and breathing.

Collaboration: Working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, such as ear, nose, and throat doctors (i.e., ENTs), dentists, and/or orthodontists, to ensure a comprehensive and integrated approach to treatment.

Causes of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders

What Causes Myofunctional Disorders?

Several factors can contribute to the development of OMDs and can often be a combination of factors. Some common causes are:

Thumb Sucking and Pacifier/Bottle Use: Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier/bottle use beyond a certain age can affect the development of the oral muscles and the alignment of the teeth and jaw.

Tongue Thrust: When the tongue pushes forward against the front teeth during swallowing, it can cause abnormal swallowing patterns and affect dental and facial development. This can also result in orthodontic relapse if left untreated.

Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs) / Structural Abnormalities: Connective tissues within the oral cavity, including upper/lower lip, upper/lower cheeks on both sides, and underneath the tongue, can be too restrictive and impair the functional movements required for adequate speech, sleep, and swallow function, resulting in compensations (mouth breathing, over/under-activation of muscles, etc.).

Breathing Disorders: Chronic mouth breathing, often associated with allergies, nasal congestion, or upper airway obstructions, can impact the muscles and function of oral and facial structures.

Anatomical Factors: Structural abnormalities in the oral and facial region, such as enlarged tonsils or adenoids.

Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to certain types of orofacial myofunctional patterns. Research suggests there is a correlation between tongue-ties and a mutation in the MTHFR (i.e., methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) gene.

Neuromuscular/Developmental Disorders: Conditions affecting the nerves and muscles in the face and mouth. Neurological/developmental disorders or injuries that affect muscle coordination may play a role.