What is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?

Myofunctional therapy is an exercise-based treatment centered on correcting improper muscle function and oral habits. This type of therapy aims to restore muscles of the face and mouth, which directly improves problems like poor tongue posture, mouth breathing, and incorrect swallowing.

The 5 core goals of myofunctional therapy are:

  1. Correct tongue posture

  2. Maintain lip seal

  3. Constant nasal breathing

  4. Correct swallow pattern

  5. No muscle compensations

Achieving these goals has a wide-reaching effect on the whole body. Targeted exercises are used to strengthen, balance, and coordinate muscles of the face, lips, tongue, and soft palate to retrain subconscious habits, allowing you to reclaim health and well-being.

I believe in myofunctional therapy because it takes a holistic approach to health, addressing the root causes rather than just managing symptoms. Too often, we're given temporary fixes for issues that are actually signals of deeper imbalances that need real solutions.

Some Benefits of MYO Include

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Some Benefits of MYO Include ... 

Better Sleep
Proper Growth
Less Jaw Pain
More Energy
Less Allergies
More Regulated

Signs that Myofuntional Therapy Could Benefit You or Your Child

  • tongue-tie

  • crowded or misaligned teeth that need/had orthodontic treatment

  • sleep-disordered breathing (ie. snoring)

  • open mouth posture

  • mouth breathing

  • TMJD

  • nervous system dysregulation (anxiety, ADHD, etc.)

  • enlarged tonsils/adenoids

  • chronic congestion

  • frequent ear infections

  • dental issues despite good oral hygiene (cavities, gum disease, etc.)

  • noxious oral habits (nail biting, cheek chewing, thumb sucking, etc.)

  • poor posture

  • body tension

  • tongue thrust swallow

  • teeth clenching/grinding

  • frequent bloating

  • strong gag reflex

  • waking up frequently at night (to use the restroom or otherwise)

  • dark eye circles

  • constant chapped lips

The primary concern is disordered breathing, and my main goal is to help restore healthy, functional breathing. Breathing is fundamental to life, and our bodies are naturally designed to breathe through the nose. Nasal breathing supports better oxygen exchange, filters out bacteria and allergens, and promotes more restful sleep.