Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

My goal as a pediatric dentist is to provide comprehensive care to our patients.  What I have learned is that
pediatric dentistry is about so much more than just teeth!  The way the mouth functions as a whole
determines a lot of how children grow, develop and function.  Some children require a specific therapy
targeted towards optimizing oral function. 

This therapy is called orofacial myofunctional therapy. 

*What is orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT)?

OMT involves remediation and treatment of orofacial myofunctional disorders through neuromuscular reeducation.  The oral structure and functions targeted are those involved in speech, feeding, swallowing, breathing, etc.

What are examples of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs)?

1. Oral habits: thumb sucking, finger sucking and tongue sucking

2. Improper tongue resting posture

3. Tongue thrusting

4. Drooling beyond appropriate age

5. Swallowing dysfunction

6. Speech difficulties

7. Hypersensitivity of the orofacial region

What causes OMDs?

1. Airway disturbances (ie large tonsils or adenoids)

2. Extended sucking habit

3. Tethered oral tissues (tongue, lip or buccal ties)

4. Neurological deficits

What happens if I don’t treat the OMD?

1. Long term mouth breathing

2. Interference with growth and development

3. Dental malocclusion

4. Orthodontic relapse

5. Speech disorders

6. Swallowing dysfunction

7. TMJ disorders

8. Development of sleep apnea

In effort to provide our patients with comprehensive care, our team consists of a certified orofacial myofunctional therapist in both our office locations.

*information provided by Ashley Walker, MS CCC-SLP, COM of the Speech Space