What is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional Therapy is a method of retraining the muscles in the orofacial complex. Over time, these muscles can become accustomed to working in a dysfunctional state, resulting in Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs). The symptoms of these disorders can be treated with an individualized therapy program consisting of a series of exercises. These exercises and techniques work to eliminate poor oral habits, while building strength and coordination in the muscles to promote proper function. When muscles are retrained to function in the proper way, and the 4 goals of OMT are met, the processes of breathing, sleeping, and swallowing naturally improve.
There are 4 Goals of OMT:
1) Continuous nasal breathing
2) Lip seal at rest
3) Proper oral resting tongue posture
4) Correct swallowing pattern