Myofunctional therapy is a program that helps to teach, restore proper strength and reprogram the muscles of the orofacial complex to ensure optimal oral function related to tongue placement, breathing, chewing, speaking and swallowing. The tongue is the strongest muscle in our body and tongue position is important as it helps to support and shape the development of the teeth and jaws.
The main cause of “muscle dysfunction” disorders are often linked to mouth breathing, a tonge restriction (tongue tie), or other specific oral habits. Myofunctional therapy helps address proper oral function and can improve certain symptoms/conditions such as mouth breathing, sleep disordered breathing (i.e. sleep apnea), teeth clenching or grinding and TMJ disorders. Addressing the cause can help improve malocclusion, eliminate thumb sucking or other oral habits, as well as help eliminate a tongue thrust, forward head posture and possible speech concerns as well.
The therapy is based on a series of often simple exercises that are client specific, progressive and designed to improve proper oral rest posture, address habit elimination and ultimately improve airway function!
THE FOUR GOALS OF MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY:
The benefits of nasal breathing are incredibly far reaching. Nasal breathing filters the air we breath, improves oxygen and nitric oxide uptake, helps calm our nervous system and can improve the quality of our sleep which in turn will help improve focus, concentration, ability to learn and improve our energy levels! The therapy needs to be tailored to each individual and the best plan may also involve other health care providers to help us reach our goals; BUT, the benefits can greatly improve overall health!
If you would like to find out if you are a good candidate or just want more information please contact Heidi and she will be happy to discuss and tell you her story.
Heidi Lorentz, BSc, RDH, Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist
e: flowmyology@gmail.com