Orofacial myofunctional therapy focuses on training the mouth and facial muscles to improve breathing, eating, and swallowing, among other necessary functions. This beneficial service may be challenging to find in your local area. Virtual therapy providers like Marvel Myo & Speech can bring these innovative treatments to your home via telehealth.
This blog explores the benefits of virtual myofunctional therapy for children and adults and shares how this method supports vital daily activities.
About Myofunctional Therapy
Orofacial myofunctional therapy, or OMT, is a noninvasive method for strengthening oral and facial muscles while increasing patients' awareness of facial movements. A myofunctional therapist guides patients aged four and up in a series of gentle exercises that provide greater coordination, mobility, and strength.
Benefits of Virtual Myofunctional Therapy
- Convenience of receiving telehealth treatment, with no lengthy trips to see a provider
- Therapy is accessible to individuals throughout the United States
- Children and individuals with special needs often feel more comfortable and relaxed in a home environment
Conditions Helped by Virtual Myofunctional Therapy
- Feeding issues in patients of all ages
- Mouth breathing
- Open mouth posture
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders
- Tongue thrust
- Bruxism (habitual teeth clenching and grinding)
- Recovery from jaw or frenectomy (tongue tie) surgeries
How Virtual Myofunctional Therapy Works
After a healthcare provider refers you or your child to oral myofunctional therapy, you may have challenges finding a local provider. Fortunately, Marvel Myo & Speech can treat patients in any U.S. state via telehealth.
During your first appointment, your clinician will evaluate your oral and facial function and recommend a course of treatment. Depending on your challenges, your clinician will choose appropriate exercises that strengthen and stretch your oral and facial muscles. As you follow the program, you will notice symptom improvements.
Exercises may include:
- Tongue training via push-ups, clicking, holding, and rolling
- Holding objects stable between the lips
- Chewing practice
- Singing
- Balloon inflation
- Nasal breathing guidance
Frequently Asked Questions About Myofunctional Therapy
How do I know whether my child needs myofunctional therapy?
Most patients needing services receive referrals from physicians, dentists, orthodontists, physical and occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists. Parents may also note the presence of issues like mouth breathing, difficulty feeding, or tongue thrusting.
What are the problems associated with mouth breathing?
Mouth breathing may seem harmless, but it can lead to multiple consequences for your child's oral and overall health. For example, patients who breathe through their mouths or have an open-mouthed resting position typically experience bad breath, dry mouth, and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
At Marvel Myo & Speech, we strive to help our clients regain full oral and facial function while supporting their health and safety. If you or your child exhibits these symptoms, please contact us today to schedule your consultation. We look forward to meeting you!
