Oralfacial Myofunctional therapy is a specialized therapeutic approach treatment plans for individuals with orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs), tethered oral tissues (like tongue ties), and airway issues by improving the function of the oral and facial muscles. It focuses on retraining these muscles to achieve optimal oral rest posture, proper nasal breathing, and effective swallowing patterns. 

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Key Components of Therapy:

       Assessment and targeting 

• Oral Rest Posture: This involves ensuring that the tongue rests on the roof of the mouth, lips are closed, and breathing occurs through the nose. Correct oral rest posture is crucial for proper facial development and function.

• Breathing Patterns: Myofunctional therapy emphasizes nasal breathing over mouth breathing. This is important for overall health, as nasal breathing filters and humidifies the air, and supports proper tongue posture.

• Swallowing Patterns: The therapy aims to correct swallowing patterns, such as tongue thrust, which can affect dental alignment and speech. Proper swallowing involves the tongue pressing against the palate rather than the teeth.

• Muscle Strength and Coordination: Exercises are used to strengthen and coordinate the muscles of the face, tongue, and throat. This can improve speech clarity, chewing efficiency, and reduce issues like snoring or sleep apnea.

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Why It Matters:

• Speech and Articulation: Proper muscle function supports clearer speech and can resolve articulation issues that aren't addressed by traditional speech therapy alone.

• Feeding and Chewing: Improved muscle coordination aids in more effective chewing and swallowing, which is especially beneficial for children with feeding difficulties.

• Facial Growth and Development: Correct oral posture and breathing patterns can positively influence facial growth and dental alignment.

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Evaluation: 60 minute/$180

An OMD exam evaluates the structures and functions of the oral and facial areas by reviewing medical history, observing facial/oral anatomy, and assessing breathing, swallowing, and oral-motor skills. It also includes noting speech clarity and any oral habits that may influence function. Findings are documented and used to guide therapy recommendations or referrals to other specialists. Price includes travel time, milage and treatment for documentation and billing.  

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Treatment: 45 minute/$60 per session 

Treatment for OMD focuses on retraining the muscles of the face, tongue, and oral cavity to promote correct breathing, chewing, swallowing, and resting posture. Therapy typically includes exercises to strengthen and coordinate oral-facial muscles, establish proper tongue resting position, improve nasal breathing, and eliminate habits like thumb sucking. Collaboration with other professionals—such as ENTs, orthodontists, or dentists—may be necessary to address structural or airway issues that contribute to the disorder.

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