Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is used to treat Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs). OMDs occur when there is is abnormal function or tone (strength) of the orofacial muscles including the lips, tongue, jaw and face.

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Typically, orofacial myofunctional disorders manifests in childhood whilst children are experiencing rapid growth. Often, children develop compensatory muscle patterns or habits that contribute to the development of OMD's. This can be influenced by various factors, including:

• extended thumb, finger, tongue or dummy/pacifier sucking

• habits such as nail biting, cheek or lip biting, chewing on clothes or blankets

• allergies

• a restricted airway (enlarged adenoids or tonsils, nasal passages) 

• structural or physiological anomalies such as a restrictive tongue frenum (tongue-tie)

• neurological or developmental abnormalities

• a genetic predisposition to the above factors

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Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders can cause:

• abnormal swallowing patterns - ear infections, tongue thrusts

• mouth breathing or open mouth posture

• orthodontic concerns - small narrow palates, crooked or crowded teeth

• snoring, sleep apnoea & poor sleep

• poor posture

• pain or discomfort of the face, jaw joint or mouth

• poor speech

• asymmetrical appearance of the lips and/or face

  
Our services are for children and adults:

• breathing re-education

• orofacial myofunctional therapy - non-invasive orofacial exercises 

• snoring and sleep apnoea treatment 

• pre-orthodontics which focuses on correct function

• tongue-tie, cheek or lip tie assessment 

• airway and jaw assessment

• sucking cessation program

• referrals to allied health professionals 

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What to expect at your first visit and throughout the program?

At Airway focused we conduct a thorough examination to understand the root cause of the myofunctional disorder. We will provide:

• a comprehensive and individualised treatment program

• non-invasive, fun, and painless exercises

• reminder techniques

• photos, videos, measurements and documentation of your child's current condition

• photos and measurements throughout treatment to measure success and progress

• referrals to other health practitioners 

• unlimited help and support

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What you will expect to observe once the program is successfully implemented.

If your home program has been successfully implemented, parents and carers can observe the following:

1. Facilitate competent lips seal

2. Restore habitual nasal breathing 

3. Eliminate dysfunctional oral habits

4. Establish proper tongue resting posture on the roof of the mouth 

5. Optimise healthy chewing and swallowing patterns

6. Quality sleep and refreshed upon waking

7. Reduced snoring

8. Optimal oral environment for proper jaw and facial growth

9. Eliminate or simply the need for extensive orthodontic treatment

10. Improve orthodontic outcomes and stability

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We will take great care to address all of your questions and concerns on the day of your visit.