Oral health is about more than just brushing and flossing. While preventing cavities and keeping your child’s teeth clean is important, there is more to consider on a daily basis. Proper chewing, breathing, and speech are equally important to your child’s growth and development.
Orofacial Myofunctional therapy is a proactive approach that supports these essential aspects of your child’s well-being. Through guided exercises children learn proper techniques that become second-nature over time. Practicing these exercises on a daily basis helps to create habits that lead to a lifetime of oral health and wellness.
What Is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy and How Does It Work for Children
Orofacial Myofunctional therapy focuses on the muscles of the face, mouth, and tongue. Therapy uses guided exercises to correct improper oral habits in children in order to improve feeding, breathing, and speech. Through the implementation of proper movements, the jaw, teeth, and oral tissues grow and develop as they should for long term benefits.
Common Oral and Facial Issues Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Can Address
- Mouth breathing. Children who breathe primarily through their mouth can develop a range of problems including dry mouth, dental issues, sleep disorders, poor posture, and improper jaw development.
- Tongue thrusting. Some children push their tongue against or between their teeth when swallowing, talking, and even at rest. This habit can cause orthodontic issues, abnormal facial development, and improper speech.
- Thumb sucking. It is normal for babies and toddlers to suck their thumb or other fingers, but it is important that the habit does not continue into childhood. Long-term thumb sucking leads to dental and orthodontic issues such as the development of a narrow palate and overbite.
- Speech issues. Many speech issues work themselves out gradually over time. However, for children who are not able to overcome their speech difficulties may need professional intervention.
- Sleep disordered breathing. Mouth breathing and improper tongue position can lead to sleep apnea, where the airway becomes blocked while sleeping, resulting in poor quality sleep.
- Improper swallowing. Children who struggle with improper swallowing have difficulty moving food to the back of their throat, often leading to choking and aspiration (food or liquid entering the lungs).
These conditions can lead to long-term health issues for children. Early intervention and treatment leads to better outcomes for children, helping them develop proper habits that will last a lifetime.
The Connection Between Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy and Long Term Oral Health
Orofacial Myofunctional therapy addresses improper habits early, which can guide growth and development and reduce or prevent future problems. It improves the alignment of the teeth and development of the jaw that can lead to shorter and less complex orthodontic treatment during adolescence. For some children, orthodontic treatment and myofunctional therapy work well together for optimal oral health and long term benefits.
How Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Fits Into a Complete Oral Health Routine
When it comes to your child’s oral health, there are many aspects to consider. A combination of routine dental visits, orthodontic care, and myofunctional therapy offer the best results. Children receiving orofacial myofunctional therapy will need to participate in guided sessions with a therapist and practice daily at home. It can help to do these exercises at the same time as brushing and flossing, when oral care is on your mind.
Make Marvel Myo & Speech a Part of Your Child’s Team
Optimal oral health is a team effort between children, parents, and health professionals. Your dentist, orthodontist, and myofunctional therapist all work together for the overall health and wellness of your child. Let Marvel Myo & Speech be your trusted partner in your child’s growth and development. Call 469-865-8057 or contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
At what age can a child start orofacial myofunctional therapy?
Therapy can begin once a child can follow simple instructions, often in early childhood. Evaluations can happen even sooner if you notice signs or symptoms that may indicate the need for intervention.
Does orofacial myofunctional therapy replace orthodontic treatment?
Orofacial myofunctional therapy does not replace orthodontics but works alongside it to improve outcomes and stability. It can reduce the overall duration and complexity of later orthodontic treatment.
Marvel Myo & Speech provides virtual therapy services for patients across the U.S. Our unique method allows us to reach more children and families in the comfort of your own home, especially those without nearby resources. We collaborate with dentists, orthodontists, and other health professionals to meet the unique needs of each patient. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.
