Treat the problem not the symptom.
Orofacial myofunctional therapy recognizes the intricate connection between the mouth and the rest of the body, emphasizing the impact of oral muscle function on overall health. The therapy targets dysfunctional patterns such as improper tongue posture, swallowing habits, and facial muscle coordination, all of which can contribute to a range of issues beyond the oral cavity. Northwest Myofunctional therapy addresses these myofunctional issues by aiming to positively influence breathing, sleep, facial aesthetics, and even posture, through a holistic approach in promoting overall well-being.
The Mouth and Body Connection
Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) can manifest in various symptoms, including:
Speech Issues: Difficulty articulating certain sounds or speech impediments.
Swallowing Difficulties: Problems with swallowing, often characterized by an abnormal tongue thrust or tongue posture during swallowing.
Open Mouth Posture: Habitual open-mouth breathing, which can impact oral and facial development.
Thumb or Finger Sucking: Persistent thumb or finger-sucking habits beyond infancy.
Mouth Breathing: Breathing predominantly through the mouth rather than the nose.
Orthodontic Problems: Malocclusions, misalignments, or issues with dental and facial development.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction: Discomfort or pain in the jaw joint, often associated with improper muscle function.
Chronic Headaches: Frequent headaches, sometimes linked to muscle tension in the head and neck.
Tongue Tie: Ankyloglossia, a condition where the strip of skin beneath the tongue restricts its movement, affecting various functions.
Facial Asymmetry: Imbalances in facial muscle development or appearance.
OMDs can affect people of all ages. It is never too early or too late to address these functional problems. Northwest Myofunctional Therapy’s goal is to re-establish foundational skills that control breathing, speaking, swallowing and sleeping by correcting the muscular habits associated with them.
A modern approach
It’s essential that every person and kid gets a personalized treatment plan at Northwest Myofunctional Therapy. While most people need a comprehensive package, I understand the commitment this can involve. Therefore, Northwest Myofunctional Therapy offers other options available to meet you or your kid exactly where you are at. Northwest Myofunctional therapy specializes in collaborative care with doctors, dentists and other healthcare professionals for every patient.
4 Goals of Treatment
Nasal Breathing
The nose is designed to act as a natural humidifier and filtration system for our bodies. Mouth breathing can lead to a range of health issues as it bypasses the natural filtration and humidification functions of the nose, making individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections. Additionally, chronic mouth breathing may contribute to dental problems, facial asymmetry, and disruptions in sleep patterns, potentially impacting overall oral and systemic health.
Lip Seal
The goal of achieving a proper lip seal in myofunctional therapy is to promote nasal breathing and enhance the development of oral and facial structures. By encouraging the lips to rest together naturally, this helps prevent issues such as open-mouth posture, supports proper tongue posture, and contributes to overall function.
Correct Tongue Posture
Correct tongue posture involves resting the tongue against the roof of the mouth, with the tip of the tongue lightly behind the front upper teeth. The tongue shapes the palate by exerting consistent pressure against it during activities like swallowing. This optimal position supports proper oral and facial development, aids in swallowing, and helps prevent issues such as open-mouth posture and malocclusions.
Correct Swallowing Pattern
Improper swallowing can allow small amounts of air when you eat and drink. This may result in digestive issues such as acid reflux, stomach pain, gas and bloating. A tongue thrust swallow may put force on teeth resulting in misaligned teeth, ortho relapse or an open bite.