Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy, also called Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is an exercise-based approach that helps to correct oral resting posture—keeping the lips closed, the tongue resting comfortably on the palate, and breathing through the nose. By retraining oral and facial muscles, therapy supports speech, chewing, swallowing, sleep, and overall health.
What Are Myofunctional Disorders?
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) are patterns involving oral and facial muscles that can interfere with normal growth and development. Common disorders that we assess and treat include:
- Tongue thrust
- Open mouth posture
- Mouth breathing
- Snoring
- Drooling
- And more...
Our Treatment Approach
Detailed Myofunctional Assessment
The journey begins with a comprehensive myofunctional assessment. We examine the coordination of the face, tongue, and lips to select the most effective exercises for a personalized plan. We do NOT use a premade weekly checklist of exercises.
Weekly Therapy
Clients learn exercises that strengthen and retrain the muscles of the face, tongue, and lips to move in a healthier way. This process requires consistent weekly practice to ensure lasting success. We closely monitor progress, ensuring mastery of an exercise before moving on to more complex movements.
Success and Functional Independence
Therapy is complete when a client consistently uses proper oral resting posture, maintains nasal breathing, and demonstrates efficient swallowing and chewing skills in everyday life, supporting their long-term health and well-being.
Collaboration & Other Considerations
Successful myofunctional outcomes often thrive on a team-based approach. Because nasal breathing is essential for correct oral posture, we may recommend a consultation with an ENT or medical specialist to evaluate airway concerns, such as enlarged adenoids. We also collaborate closely with orthodontists and dentists, as structural factors like a narrow palate can significantly impact tongue placement.
Tethered Oral Tissues (Tongue & Lip Ties)
During our assessment, we informally screen for possible ties. If concerns arise, we will recommend a formal medical evaluation. Please note that any decision regarding surgical intervention is made solely by a physician or dentist, rather than the speech therapist.
Common Questions About Myofunctional Therapy
What ages benefit from myofunctional therapy?
Myofunctional therapy can benefit people from about age 4 through adulthood. Clients must be able to follow simple directions and practice exercises at home, which is key for progress. Younger children who show OMDs may be better served by feeding therapy.
What does a typical myofunctional therapy session look like?
Therapy sessions begin with a review of previous exercises and teaching of new ones. We focus on specific exercises to retrain the muscles of the face, tongue, and lips. For children, it often feels like play, while for adults, it’s a clear, goal-oriented process to achieve functional independence.
How often will we need to practice at home?
Consistency is the secret to success. Home practice is key to progress, and we typically recommend practicing for just a few minutes, 2-3 times a day. We provide clear guidance so these small habits can fit into your family’s daily routine.
How long does myofunctional therapy usually take?
The timeline varies based on each person’s unique goals and consistent practice. Therapy is complete when proper oral rest posture and nasal breathing become effortless habits in everyday life. This may take 6 to 12 months, with sessions becoming less frequent near the end of the program. We track progress closely to ensure you are moving efficiently toward functional independence.