Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (Orofacial Myology) is a profoundly useful treatment which involves the restoration of normal function and interaction of the muscles of the face and mouth, in order to support correct growth & development.
Muscles of the face and mouth are “re-patterned” in order that they can work harmoniously to positively influence correct jaw growth, tooth alignment, swallowing, chewing, speech, jaw shape and function, as well as to help stabilize orthodontic treatment.
Habits such as thumb or finger sucking, nail biting and mouth breathing, can also adversely influence jaw growth and development and tooth position, and these are addressed with specific programs designed to eliminate these habits with a positive, fun and supportive approach.
Is it effective?
Research has shown that Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is very effective in helping to treat the symptoms of a wide variety of health issues, including poor digestion, narrow airways, sleep disorders, headaches, and poor posture, among others.
Many scientific studies show that Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy can be 80-90% effective in correcting tongue position, swallowing, sucking/biting habits and rest posture of the tongue & lips, and show that these corrections are retained for years after completing the therapy.
The therapy programs are delivered over a 4-12 month period and there are many factors that influence its success. Of utmost importance is the commitment and cooperation of the patient.
When the patient is a child, the parent/s play a crucial role in support & encouragement.
Orofacial Myology Programs we offer:
• Tongue thrust
• Tongue rest posture therapy
• Thumb, finger & dummy sucking
• Biting habits (nails, lips, cheeks)
• Mouth breathing
• Breathing re-training
• Open lip/mouth posture