Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) affect the functions and muscles of the mouth and face.
Proper tongue resting posture is important for the orofacial muscles to function well. By developing this muscle memory, it can keep the teeth and jaw aligned as children grow and develop. Many people mouth-breathe more than they should. When this happens, the muscles and orofacial functions adapt to a disordered breathing pattern which creates many OMDs.
Myofunctional therapy can address the following issues:
- Open mouth breathing
- Chewing with lips open
- Tongue thrust swallow
- Snoring or frequent wakings
- Tongue- and lip-ties
- Oral habits such as nail biting, thumb sucking, extended pacifier use
- Dental crowding and orthodontic relapse
- Teeth grinding
While myofunctional therapy needs active involvement in the therapy process, this does not mean that issues identified in infants and babies should be ignored. Issues such as mouth breathing, orofacial tone issues, and tethered tissues can be addressed at a young age. We work with our community partners when we recognize that more support is needed.
Has a tongue/lip tie procedure been recommended? It is recommended that even babies and infants receive pre- and post-procedure sessions.