Habits that develop in childhood may be seen in behaviors later in life.  By training muscles in the face to function correctly, the muscle memory can keep the teeth and jaw in proper alignment.

Treatment programs are individualized and focus on tongue and facial resting postures, swallowing and speech articulation.  Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is painless and the exercises are relatively easy.

When certain muscles of the face are activated and functioning properly, other muscles will follow until proper coordination of the tongue and facial muscles are attained.

For success in therapy, consistent daily exercises are needed until consistent proper muscle patterns are attained.  This takes time and commitment by the patient and family.

Treatment usually consists of a 6-12 month program although treatment is individualized so length of time can vary.

We provide therapy for:

HABIT ELIMINATION

• • Eliminate all noxious habits: thumb sucking, nail biting, pacifier use

MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY FOR TREATMENT OF

• • Tongue thrust
  • Incorrect swallow
  • Lip Incompetence
  • Correct tongue posture
  • Mouth Breathing
  • Tongue and Lip Tie (pre/post therapy)
  • TMJ disorder that is related to OMD
  • Snoring related to tongue posture

Treatment consists of a team approach:

A team may include Dentist, Orthodontist, ENT, Pediatrician, SLP and parent/caregiver.

Appropriate referrals are given if needed prior to starting myofunctional therapy to:

• • establish bilateral nasal breathing and eliminate obstruction
  • address anatomical restrictions such as frenum attachment or the need for maxillary expansion.

While treatment can be tedious, it is asked that patients commit to four months of myofunctional therapy. Every person is different and has their own unique needs so success can be altered for many reasons and can range from 4-16 months. All treatment is specific to the persons individual needs.