Myofunctional therapy helps with a variety of difficulties that are common in children, including speech, feeding, sleep, and airway issues. Many of these concerns are present from birth or become more noticeable in early childhood. By addressing them early with myofunctional therapy, children can overcome these challenges and live healthier lives.
Learn more about the importance of early intervention for myofunctional therapy and where to seek treatment for your child.
What is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy is physical therapy for the muscles of the face and mouth. It is used to correct improper breathing, swallowing, and tongue position, all of which can lead to more severe health problems as children grow. Through therapy sessions speech issues can also be improved, helping children to be able to communicate more effectively for social acceptance.
The Importance of Early Intervention
The earlier myofunctional therapy begins, the better the overall outcome. The appropriate age to begin myofunctional therapy is at 4 years of age and older. For younger children, oral motor and feeding therapy is more appropriate. Children reach certain developmental milestones, during which therapy can make the biggest impact. The longer improper breathing, swallowing, and speech continue, the more difficult it becomes for the child to overcome these negative habits and the greater the risk of long term health complications.
- Feeding: Infants and young children with feeding issues may not be able to get the nutrition they need.
- Breathing: Mouth breathing can have a negative impact on children while they are awake and when they sleep. Sleep apnea prevents children from getting the quality sleep they need for proper growth and development.
- Speech: Improper speech can make it difficult for children to communicate with adults and their peers, which can affect social acceptance.
- Orthodontics: Breathing and swallowing issues can affect the alignment of the teeth and the development of the jaw, preventing proper chewing and biting.
Signs Your Child May Need Myofunctional Therapy
- Your child breathes primarily through their mouth instead of their nose.
- Your child mispronounces words or doesn’t speak at the proper developmental level for their age.
- Your child often chokes on food while eating or coughs frequently during meals.
- Your child snores, stops breathing for periods of time while sleeping, or sleeps restlessly.
- Your child’s tongue thrusts out of their mouth when they speak or swallow.
If your child has exhibited any of the above symptoms, they may need a professional evaluation to determine if there is a need for myofunctional therapy.
Benefits of Early Myofunctional Therapy
- Improved oral function. Myofunctional therapy at the right time can improve chewing and swallowing.
- Proper facial development. By eliminating habits like tongue thrusting and mouth breathing at an early age, the face and jaw will have time to grow and develop properly.
- Prevention of future health and dental complications. Early intervention can prevent cavities, gum disease, misaligned teeth, chronic fatigue, aspiration, and pneumonia.
- Boosted confidence. Myofunctional therapy can help children develop confidence through proper speech and facial development.
Frequently Asked Questions About Myofunctional Therapy
How long does myofunctional therapy take?
Your child may need to have regular therapy sessions over the course of a few months to a year or more in order to reach the desired results. Most children will need at least 6 months to achieve the goals of therapy with lasting results.
When is it too late for myofunctional therapy?
It is never too late to begin myofunctional therapy. Myofunctional therapy begins (and has the most benefits according to research) from ages 4 years and up. Although early intervention has definite advantages, it is always helpful to get the necessary help you need to swallow, speak, and breathe properly.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If your child shows signs of needing myofunctional therapy, contact Marvel Myo and Speech today and schedule your free 15 minute consultation. After the initial consultation we can make a recommendation for treatment that will help your child overcome whatever developmental difficulties they are facing. Get started today and give your child the opportunity for better health and quality of life.
Marvel Myo and Speech provides online therapy sessions from the comfort of your own home. Save time and avoid the hassle of driving to appointments and experience expert therapy from one of our highly qualified instructors. Contact us today to learn more and schedule your free consultation.
