Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
& Pre-Orthodontics
In clinic - 9 Lower Plenty Rd, Rosanna Video Telehealth options
0408 153 773
@airway_focused_
What is Orofacial Myofunctional therapy?
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a specialised program that, incorporates specific activities and exercises to help eliminate causes of improper rest posture of the tongue and swallowing abnormalities.
A series of exercises and habit correction are implemented to help retrain and strengthen the muscles and re-educate the nerve signals in the brain for improved function, balance, and health.
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Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is painless and the exercises are relatively simple and fun. When certain muscles of the face are activated and functioning properly, other muscles will follow suit until proper coordination of the tongue and facial muscles is achieved.
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To have success in this therapy, consistent exercise every day is necessary until the existing, improper muscle pattern has been corrected. It takes commitment by the patient, family and time.
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Treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment and diagnosis of the functions of the mouth, face, throat and oral habits. Measurements, photos, videos and referrals may be necessary, followed by an intensive 5-8 week individualised program. Following initial treatment, a regular program of exercises and appointment reviews over a 6 – 12 month period. Treatment length may vary.
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What are Orofacial Myofunctional disorders?
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders are disorders of the muscles and functions of the face, tongue and mouth which directly and/or indirectly affect:
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swallowing
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dental arch development
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facial skeletal growth and development (small jaws, crowded teeth, small airways)
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chewing/ eating
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speech
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sleep quality
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temporomandibular joint dysfunction/ pain (TMJD)
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oral hygiene and dental health
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ear drainage issues
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nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting)
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stability of orthodontic treatment
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facial aesthetic
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stomach pain/bloating (from swallowing air)
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Most OMDs originate with inadequate habitual nose breathing, or with chronic mouth breathing. The subsequent adaptation of the facial muscles and functions from this disordered breathing habit, will create many Myofunctional Disorders and orthodontic concerns.
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When the muscles of the tongue, throat and face are functioning and used correctly, this assists in the resolution of many of orofacial myofunctional disorders.
Our goal is to provide customised treatment for you or your child while working with a multidisciplinary team; GP, ENTs, dentist, orthodontists or speech pathologists to collectively achieve the best oral function and balance.
How can I tell if I have a Myofunctional Disorder?
Often the most obvious symptom of incorrect oral posture involves the muscles of the face.
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A dull (tired), lethargic appearance and full, weak lips develop when muscles are not operating normally.
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Constantly parted lips (with or without mouth breathing) is another indicator of this disorder.
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A person swallowing incorrectly will often purse and tighten the muscles of the cheeks, chin and lips. This can give the chin a squashed appearance because these muscles are being overused.
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Mouth breathing or constantly open lips is sign of tongue thrust and low tongue rest posture.
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Snoring or noisy breathing is another sign.
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Benefits of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
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Developmental support for children: Early intervention through OMT can assist in proper oral development, speech patterns, and facial growth in children. It sets a strong foundation for wide jaws, and healthy airways.
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Improved oral function: By addressing OMDs such as improper swallowing, tongue posture, and breathing habits (mouth breathing), OMT can enhance the oral function of your mouth, promoting better chewing, swallowing, and speaking abilities.
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Correcting oral facial issues: OMT can help correct various orofacial issues including mouth breathing, tongue thrust, speech disorders, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and pain, and orthodontic problems.
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Better breathing and sleep: By addressing mouth breathing habits, OMT improves nasal breathing which may alleviate sleep-related issues like snoring or sleep apnoea. It promotes healthy breathing patterns for better overall well-being.
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More Energy: ​Nasal breathing is proven to increase quality of sleep therefore increasing energy levels and focus by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system (rest,repair and digest).
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Nasal Breathing: Nasal breathing promotes efficient oxygenation, filters the air, regulates airflow, enhances lung function, maintains proper gas balance, and supports proper jaw and dental development. Mouth breathing on the other hand has some detrimental effects, especially for young children who jaws and face are still growing and developing. Mouth breathing continually activates the Sympathetic (fight and flight) receptors, meaning you are in a state of dysregulation, and never entering the Parasympathetic state ( rests, heal and repair).
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Multidisciplinary Approach
A Myofunctional Therapist is one member of the team that will successfully treat an OMD. Other allied professionals such as Dentists, Orthodontists, ENT’s, Sleep Physicians, GP’s, Chiropractors, Osteopaths and Speech Therapists, will work collaboratively to ensure that the patient’s needs are addressed and handled appropriately.
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Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy can help patient's regain the enjoyment of eating, speaking, breathing correctly and improve sleep quality. Increasing muscle tone, facial symmetry can also be improved, which can help restore confidence and self-esteem. Further, if addressed early, costly orthodontics may be eliminated.