OMT involves specific exercises targeting the cheeks, tongue, and lips to strengthen these muscles and enhance your awareness of facial movements.
This therapy helps in correcting abnormal muscle movement patterns often associated with orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs). It also assists in treating OMDs, which can impact how you breathe, chew, swallow, and even speak.
Discover how OMT can improve your oral function, breathing, and overall quality of life.
Who Can Benefit From OMT?
OMT treats various issues that may affect both children and adults:
Mouth Breathing: Difficulty in nasal air intake can lead to sleep disorders and health complications.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Soft tissues can obstruct the airway during sleep, resulting in breathing issues.
Open Mouth Posture: Proper lip closure is crucial; an open mouth can cause alignment issues with teeth, jaws, and tongue posture.
Tongue Thrust: This condition, which mainly affects children, leads to improper tongue positioning during swallowing and speaking.
Teeth Clenching/Grinding (Bruxism): Excessive clenching can lead to tooth damage, headaches, and jaw pain.
TMJ Disorders: Conditions related to the temporomandibular joint that can cause chronic pain and chewing difficulties.
Recovery From Jaw Surgery: It may take time to regain proper function after surgical interventions.
Post-Frenectomy Recovery: Recovering from frenectomies, or tongue-tied procedures, may require help with muscle flexibility and movement.
Your first OMT session will start with an evaluation to identify your specific challenges. The therapist will devise a personalized treatment plan that may include breathing techniques, lip exercises, tongue movements, and more, tailored to your unique needs.
The length of therapy varies by condition, but it typically lasts six to 12 months. Be prepared for regular sessions that may involve both in-clinic and at-home exercises, guided by your therapist.
Benefits of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
Engaging in OMT can lead to various positive outcomes, including:
Enhanced ability to breathe through your nose and speak clearly
Improved lip and tongue positioning for better oral health and support during orthodontic treatment
Better recovery from jaw surgery
Elevated self-esteem due to improved speaking and eating function
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