Green Hills Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy!
In our effort to treat the root cause of problems, we are proud to provide therapy aimed at preventing and treating the muscular imbalances that cause improper growth and development. Our teeth, tongues, and TMJ’s are part of a complex system that allows us to function properly and breathe freely. Simply put, our faces grow around our tongues. If the tongue is not positioned and functioning properly, the position and function of our teeth and jaws are effected. This can be caused by:
- Mouth Breathing
- Tongue Thrust
- TMJ Issues
- Tethered oral tissues (ex. Tongue Tied)
- Incorrect tongue posture & swallowing patterns
- Unhealthy habits such as digit sucking, tongue/cheek biting, and nail-biting.
What Are Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs)?
OMDs occur when the muscles of the orofacial complex work outside their intended purpose. Overtime, changes in structure and function occur that may lead to issues that interfere with normal growth and development.
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) in the Lehigh Valley
At Green Hills Dentistry, we’ve introduced a department to address and develop treatment for these specific issues, MYOMY, where we use neuromuscular training to address OMDs.
Customized treatment plans are created for each patient, with individual exercises to target specific OMDs the patient presents with.
Some Goals of Myofunctional Therapy:
- Implement Correct Oral Rest Posture
- Establish Nasal breathing
- Differentiate tongue movement from jaw movement
- Correct Chewing and swallowing patterns
Our OM Therapist, Ashley, began the study of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy in 2020 and is pursuing certification through the International Association of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy. She has been a hygienist since 2008. She feels fortunate to have worked for a dentist that practices comprehensive care. Her mentors encouraged her to think critically about the treatment she offers her patients, think about the body as a whole, and treat patients with compassion and kindness.
Treating Orofacial Disorders: A Collaborative Approach
While Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy aids in correcting OMDs, we need a collaborative approach. Providers that may possibly be involved in treatment include:
Dentists – who specialize in Occlusion Disorders to address TMJ and/or have special training to release tethered oral tissues
Orthodontists – who practice airway dentistry along with Phase I and II treatments. Orthodontists who are involved in this process may benefit from seeing the long-term success of Post Orthodontic Treatment
Other Practitioners – Bodyworkers which can include Physical Therapists, Massage Therapists, Cranial Sacral Therapists, Speech/Language Pathologists, and ENT’s
What is Orofacial Myology (OM)?
Orofacial Myology is the study of the muscles that make up the face and oral structures and how they form and function together. These muscles allow us to breathe, eat, swallow, speak, and express emotion.
When the muscles of the orofacial complex compensate due to a variety of problems, changes in structure and function occur. This leads to issues that interfere with normal growth, development, and function. These issues are considered to be Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders.
If you think you suffer from any of the Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders listed above or wish to be evaluated, give our office a call to set up a consultation.