Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder (OMD) refers to abnormal resting posture of the face and mouth, atypical swallowing patterns, dental malocclusions, blocked nasal airways and speech issues. OMD’s include a wide variety of oral postures, habit patterns and functions which interfere with normal growth and development or function of structures. These disorders can lead to incorrect muscle patterns that can lead to different problems.

Sometimes a single cause can be established for the development of OMD, but many times the result is due to a combination of various factors. These may include structural abnormalities such as being tongue-tied. Another factor can be improper habits such as nail biting, cheek biting, teeth clenching and grinding, or sucking of the thumb or fingers. Deviations in the pharynx or nasal cavity, allergies, or airway restrictions resulting from an enlargement of the tonsils or adenoids may also be part of the cause of OMD. Heredity also plays a factor in determining who might develop some of these conditions.

OMD disorders can also affect:

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

What are the goals for orofacial myofunctional therapy?
The goal of this program is to eliminate bad habits, demonstrate therapeutic facial exercises, develop proper lip seal and tongue placement and teach chewing and swallowing patterns to reinforce good habits. These goals will help the structures in the mouth stay in balance and habitualizing the learned behaviors is most important for long term success.

How long does therapy take?
Therapy consists of different phases, which are generally addressed over the course of months. It takes time to unlearn habits and re-pattern new ones.

What does a therapy program consist of?
A complimentary screening at Align Myo and Speech can identify signs and symptoms of OMDs. A myofunctional assessment will evaluate oral structures and functions, and allow for an individual therapy plan.  Therapy exercises are given to be done routinely at home.

How does the patient’s and/or parent’s participation affect therapy outcomes?
The patient and parent/guardian must understand that progress and results can be delayed if there is a lack of commitment and daily participation. Therapy goals may require collaboration of other dental or health care providers before or during your myofunctional therapy program.