Oromyofunctional disorders (OMDs) can trigger a domino effect of health challenges—from mouth breathing and sleep apnea to TMJ pain, speech delays, and orthodontic relapse. But the good news? When you treat the root cause with a personalized, evidence-based approach, you can improve not just your oral function—but your overall well-being.
At BreatheWorks, our whole-patient model is built around helping you or your child achieve lasting results, not just symptom relief. Here’s how we do it.
What Is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy is a research-backed treatment that retrains the muscles of the mouth, face, tongue, and throat for healthy function. Think of it as physical therapy for the oral and facial muscles.
- Goal: Restore optimal breathing, swallowing, tongue posture, and oral habits
- Who benefits: Children, teens, and adults with mouth breathing, tongue thrust, TMJ pain, sleep-disordered breathing, and orthodontic problems
Studies show that myofunctional therapy can reduce symptoms of sleep apnea by over 50% in children and significantly improve orthodontic stability, jaw comfort, and speech clarity (Villa et al., 2017).
The BreatheWorks Whole-Patient Treatment Approach
1. Comprehensive, Collaborative Evaluation
- Our clinicians conduct a detailed assessment of breathing patterns, airway health, jaw function, tongue and lip posture, chewing, swallowing, and speech.
- We use standardized measurements, video analysis, and, when needed, collaborate with ENTs, dentists, orthodontists, and sleep specialists for a 360-degree view of your health.
2. Personalized Myofunctional Therapy Plans
- Each patient receives a customized therapy program targeting their unique muscle patterns and habits.
- Programs may include:
- Tongue and lip exercises
- Nasal breathing training
- Swallow retraining
- Chewing and posture exercises
- Home exercises and digital support for accountability
3. Airway and Sleep Optimization
- For those with mouth breathing,snoring remedies, or sleep apnea, we address airway obstacles and teach nasal breathing habits.
- We coordinate with your medical team to address allergies, enlarged tonsils/adenoids, or other barriers to healthy breathing.
4. Speech and Feeding Integration
- For patients with speech delays or feeding issues, our therapy incorporates articulation, voice, and safe, efficient swallowing techniques—all aligned with myofunctional principles.
5. Ongoing Support and Collaboration
- We provide education and resources for parents, caregivers, and adult patients.
- Our team coordinates with your other providers for seamless care, whether you’re in orthodontic treatment, sleep medicine, or speech therapy.
What Results Can Patients Expect?
- Improved nasal breathing and airway health
- Better sleep quality and daytime focus
- Stabilized orthodontic results (less relapse)
- Reduced TMJ pain, jaw tension, and tmj headache
- Clearer speech and improved swallowing
- More confident, efficient eating and communication
- Overall increase in energy, mood, and quality of life
A 2021 systematic review found that children and adults completing myofunctional therapy had significant improvement in airway size, sleep quality, TMJ symptoms, and overall wellness (Camacho et al., 2021).
Real-World Example: Transforming Lives at BreatheWorks
One patient came to BreatheWorks after years of orthodontic relapse and nightly snoring. Through targeted myofunctional therapy and a coordinated care plan with their orthodontist and ENT, they not only stabilized their dental alignment but also eliminated snoring, resolved TMJ pain, and now wake feeling truly rested for the first time in years.
Why Choose BreatheWorks for Oromyofunctional Therapy?
- Whole-patient, collaborative care: Our unique approach addresses the root causes, not just symptoms.
- Certified, award-winning clinicians: Experienced in myofunctional therapy, speech therapy, airway health, and more.
- Integrated technology and follow-up: We support your progress with digital tools and accessible care.
- Results that last: Our focus is on building lifelong habits and health, not quick fixes.
If you or your child struggle with mouth breathing, jaw pain, sleep problems, speech issues, or orthodontic relapse, take the first step today. Contact BreatheWorks for a comprehensive oromyofunctional evaluation and experience the benefits of a truly whole-patient approach.
