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How Is Myofunctional Therapy Connected To The Overall Oral Health Of Your Child?

Reviewed by Corinne Jarvis
Written by Corinne Jarvis Published 11/16/2020 Updated 08/12/2023

Myofunctional therapy is one of the lesser-known treatments in the dental world, but its benefits for children are becoming increasingly recognized. By improving facial muscle function through myofunctional exercises, this therapy can have a direct and lasting impact on a child’s oral health.

Let’s explore how myofunctional therapy supports oral health and the overall impact it may have on your child’s well-being. Here’s how BreatheWorks can help with your child’s oral health and what implications that can have for their future.

Oromyofunctional Disorders (OMDs)

In the medical world, oromyofunctional disorders (OMDs), such as a clicking jaw, are commonly referred to as OMDs in children. These disorders often develop early in life, and many parents might not immediately recognize the signs.

Some common signs of OMDs in children include improper eating and drinking patterns, mouth breathing that contributes to obstructive sleep apnea, and issues with speech development. These symptoms can lead to a range of oral health disorders, such as misaligned teeth, underdeveloped jaw structures, or difficulties in chewing and swallowing.

For example, children with OMDs often develop a “tongue thrust”, where the tongue pushes forward against the teeth during swallowing. Over time, this pressure can cause the teeth to shift, requiring orthodontic correction.

Without proper facial muscle function, a wide range of oral hygiene issues can arise, along with problems related to breathing, speech, and facial development. Orofacial myofunctional therapy aims to correct these imbalances by training the facial muscles to function properly.

Relationship Between Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders and TMJ Disorders

There is also a direct link between orofacial myofunctional disorders and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. The TMJ is crucial for everyday activities such as chewing and speaking, and when there’s a misalignment in the jaw caused by OMDs, it places unnecessary strain on the joint.

If left untreated, these disorders may cause further stress on the TMJ, potentially leading to chronic jaw pain and discomfort. Over time, misaligned facial muscles pull on the jaw in unnatural ways, increasing the chances of TMJ disorders developing.

Some children may also develop poor habits like teeth grinding or jaw clenching, which worsen TMJ issues. By addressing these imbalances early with myofunctional therapy, proper muscle function can be restored, allowing for correct jaw alignment and reducing strain on the TMJ.

How Mouth Breathing Can Exacerbate Sleep Apnea

While mouth breathing may seem harmless, it has serious implications for both oral health and general well-being. Myofunctional therapy can help identify hidden oromyofunctional disorders that are often a key contributor to sleep apnea in children.

In growing children, obstructive sleep apnea caused by OMDs can disrupt sleep patterns and hinder healthy brain development. Children suffering from this condition may experience restless nights and chronic daytime fatigue.

If sleep apnea remains untreated, it can lead to behavioral issues, difficulty concentrating, and stunted growth. Immediate intervention through orofacial myofunctional therapy can resolve these issues effectively.

For instance, children who breathe through their mouths instead of their noses may have their tongues resting in a low position in the mouth, which can obstruct the airway, particularly when the head is at rest. Mouth breathing often leads to airway obstruction, exacerbating sleep apnea.

Reestablishing nasal breathing is essential, as it not only improves oxygen flow but also helps keep the airway open. Nasal breathing is more efficient than mouth breathing, significantly increasing oxygenation by allowing maximum airflow and reducing airway obstruction.

The Benefits of Early Myofunctional Treatment

One important lesson from myofunctional therapy is the value of early treatment. Often, parents discover their child has oromyofunctional disorders only after symptoms such as crooked teeth or jaw pain have already appeared.

The earlier clicking jaw or other OMD symptoms are identified and treated, the easier it is to correct them. Early intervention guides the proper development of facial and oral features, reducing the likelihood of more severe problems down the road.

When the muscles of the face, mouth, and tongue function correctly, orofacial myofunctional therapy can establish healthy oral habits and reduce the need for extensive orthodontic treatment in the future.

How to Tell If Your Child Needs Myofunctional Therapy

How can you tell if your child might benefit from myofunctional therapy? Here are a few signs that may indicate an underlying oromyofunctional disorder:

  1. Your child breathes through their mouth, even when they are not congested.
  2. They have difficulty chewing or swallowing food properly.
  3. Your child’s speech sounds unclear, or they struggle to pronounce certain sounds.
  4. Their jaw clicks or pops, or they complain of jaw pain.

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it might be time to consult a board certified speech-language pathologist about whether myofunctional therapy is appropriate for your child.

Myofunctional therapy addresses the root causes of many common oral health problems, focusing on the muscles of the face and mouth. By diagnosing oromyofunctional disorders early and starting the proper treatment, you can help your child grow up with improved oral health, better breathing, and overall well-being.

If you have any concerns about whether myofunctional therapy could benefit your child, a consultation with a board certified specialist can provide the information and guidance needed to make the best decision for their health.

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