In orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD) the tongue protrudes while an individual is in the midst of swallowing, speaking and even while resting. It may seem harmless to most but these abnormal actions of the tongue will eventually affect speech, growth, social interaction and much more. Myofunctional therapy is highly effective if started early and customized for each individual based on age and condition.
Myofunctional therapy is a type of physical therapy that helps to train the muscles and structures of the face, neck and mouth to function properly so that eating, breathing, sleeping, speaking and one’s facial image is optimized. Training the muscles of the face to work properly through myofunctional therapy encourages muscle memory that will keep the teeth and jaw in alignment as the body continues to grow and develop. It may even reduce the need for future orthodontics or oral surgery.