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Myofunctional therapy, or orofacial myofunctional therapy, is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on the muscles and functions of the face, tongue, and mouth. It involves exercises and techniques designed to correct improper muscle functions related to breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speech. By targeting these oral muscle dysfunctions, myofunctional therapy aims to improve oral health, treat issues such as mouth breathing and improper swallowing patterns, and enhance facial aesthetics. This therapy is often used in collaboration with orthodontic and dental treatments, as well as to address issues like sleep apnea and speech disorders, promoting optimal orofacial function and overall well-being. 

Suitable Candidates for Myofunctional Therapy 

Children with Orofacial Development Issues 

Myofunctional therapy is often recommended for children with improper tongue posture, tongue thrusting, or other orofacial muscle dysfunctions that affect speech development, swallowing, and dental health. 

Orthodontic Patients 

Individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment may benefit from myofunctional therapy to support the stability of orthodontic corrections, especially if they have issues like tongue-tie or tongue thrust. 

Patients with Breathing Issues 

People experiencing chronic mouth breathing, snoring, sleep apnea, or other breathing-related problems can benefit from myofunctional therapy to transition from mouth breathing to nasal breathing. 

Speech and Language Disorder Patients 

Individuals with speech and language disorders, articulation difficulties, or delayed speech development may find myofunctional therapy helpful in improving their speech and communication skills. 

TMJ Disorder Patients 

Those with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, characterized by jaw pain and discomfort, can benefit from myofunctional therapy to alleviate TMJ symptoms associated with muscle dysfunction. 

Sleep Apnea Patients 

Myofunctional therapy can be part of a comprehensive approach to managing sleep apnea by addressing muscle issues contributing to airway obstruction during sleep. 

The Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy 

• Myofunctional therapy can help individuals transition from mouth breathing to nasal breathing, which is crucial for optimal oxygen intake and can alleviate issues like sleep apnea and snoring. 
• By promoting proper tongue posture and swallowing patterns, myofunctional therapy can prevent dental issues such as malocclusion and excessive wear on tooth surfaces. 
• Myofunctional therapy can enhance articulation, pronunciation, and clarity in individuals with speech disorders or articulation difficulties. 
• Correcting muscle dysfunctions through myofunctional therapy can improve sleep quality, addressing conditions like sleep apnea and restless sleep. 
• Myofunctional therapy exercises can contribute to balanced facial muscle tone, reducing asymmetry and promoting an improved aesthetic appearance. 
• Myofunctional therapy can alleviate symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, including jaw pain and discomfort. 
• Myofunctional therapy benefits children with speech and language development delays, helping them acquire proper speech patterns. 

Myofunctional therapy is tailored to each individual's unique needs, ensuring that exercises and techniques are specific to their concerns and goals. To learn more, please get in touch with us at (503) 367-9440, book an appointment online, or email us at megan@nwmyofunctionaltherapy.com to schedule a consultation with our team.