Question 1

What is Myofunctional Therapy? And who can benefit?

Accepted Answer

Myofunctional therapy is a type of exercise-based treatment that focuses on the muscles of the face, mouth, and neck. The goal of myofunctional therapy is to address and correct improper muscle function and coordination, particularly in the muscles associated with breathing, swallowing, and facial expressions.
Children ages 4 and up, teens and adults all can benefit from Myofunctional Theapy.

Myofunctional therapy may be beneficial for various individuals, including:

Orthodontic Patients:
 
Myofunctional therapy is often recommended for individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment, especially those with issues such as tongue thrust or incorrect swallowing patterns. It can help in achieving more stable and lasting orthodontic results.

Breathing Disorders:

Individuals with breathing disorders, such as mouth breathing or sleep apnea, may benefit from myofunctional therapy. The therapy aims to promote proper nasal breathing and address any issues that contribute to respiratory problems.

TMJ Disorders (Temporomandibular Joint Disorders):

Myofunctional therapy can be beneficial for individuals with TMJ disorders by helping to improve the alignment and function of the jaw muscles and joints.

Children with Orofacial Developmental Issues:

Children with orofacial developmental issues, such as tongue ties or palate abnormalities, may benefit from myofunctional therapy to promote proper oral and facial development.

Snoring and Sleep Apnea:

Myofunctional therapy can be part of a comprehensive approach to address snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea by improving the function of the oral and facial muscles involved in breathing.

Chronic Headaches or Facial Pain:

Individuals experiencing chronic headaches or facial pain may find relief through myofunctional therapy, especially if the pain is related to issues with jaw muscle function or tension.

Thumb Sucking or Prolonged Pacifier Use:

Myofunctional therapy can be useful in helping children break habits like thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use, which can affect oral and facial development.

Question 2

What is  a Myofunctional Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Myofunctional disorders refer to conditions that involve abnormal function of the muscles in the face and mouth. These disorders can affect various aspects of oral and facial functions, including speech, chewing, swallowing, and facial skeletal growth. Myofunctional disorders often result from improper habits or patterns of muscle use.
Common myofunctional disorders include:

Tongue Thrust: Also known as orofacial myofunctional disorder, this condition involves the tongue pushing against or between the front teeth during swallowing, rather than against the roof of the mouth.
Thumb Sucking: Prolonged thumb or finger sucking can lead to myofunctional issues, affecting the alignment of teeth and the development of the oral cavity.
Mouth Breathing: Chronic breathing through the mouth instead of the nose can contribute to myofunctional disorders. Mouth breathing may be due to nasal congestion, allergies, or other factors.
Incorrect Lip and Tongue Rest Posture: Improper resting position of the lips and tongue can affect facial and dental development.
Speech Disorders: Some speech disorders may be associated with myofunctional issues, as the coordination of facial muscles is crucial for clear speech.

Early intervention is often beneficial to prevent potential long-term consequences on oral and facial development.

Question 3

What are some examples of Myofunctional Disorders?

Accepted Answer

Some examples of OMD's are (but not limited to): 
Mouth Breathing
Tongue Tie
Snoring & Sleep Apnea
Malocclusion
Ortho Relapse
Speech Impediments
Tongue Thrust
Improper Swallow
Oral Habits (digit sucking, pacifier use after certain age, etc.)
Low Tongue Posture
Clenching/grinding

Question 4

How do I know if I can benefit from Myofunctional Therapy?

Accepted Answer

Myofunctional therapy is a type of treatment that focuses on the muscles of the face and mouth, aiming to improve functions such as breathing, swallowing, and speech. It may be beneficial for individuals with various issues, but it's important to note that its effectiveness can vary from person to person. Here are some signs that you may benefit from myofunctional therapy:

Breathing Issues: If you experience difficulty breathing through your nose, chronic mouth breathing, or snoring, myofunctional therapy may help address these issues by improving nasal breathing and promoting proper tongue posture.
Orthodontic Problems: Myofunctional therapy can be beneficial for individuals with orthodontic issues, such as malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth) or crowded teeth.  Orthodontic relapse may also be a sign of a OMD. Myofunctional therapy may complement orthodontic treatment by addressing underlying muscle issues.
Tongue Tie or Tethered Oral Tissues: If you have a condition like tongue tie (ankyloglossia) or other tethered oral tissues that affect tongue movement, myofunctional therapy may help improve tongue function and coordination.
Speech and Articulation Issues: Individuals with speech or articulation problems, particularly those related to tongue placement and movement, may find myofunctional therapy helpful in improving their speech patterns.
TMJ Disorders: Myofunctional therapy may be recommended for individuals with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, as it can help with jaw muscle coordination and reduce tension in the jaw.
Facial Pain: If you experience chronic facial pain or headaches, myofunctional therapy may be beneficial in addressing muscle imbalances that contribute to these symptoms.
Chronic Thumb Sucking or Pacifier Use: Children who engage in prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use may develop oral habits that could be addressed through myofunctional therapy.

It's important to consult with a Myofunctional Therapist to determine whether myofunctional therapy is suitable for your specific situation. They can assess your symptoms, evaluate your oral and facial muscles, and provide personalized recommendations based on your needs. Keep in mind that myofunctional therapy often involves exercises and techniques that require consistent practice, so commitment to the therapy plan is crucial for its success.

Question 5

What is a tongue tie?

Accepted Answer

A tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the strip of skin beneath a person's tongue (lingual frenulum) is shorter than usual, restricting the movement of the tongue. The medical term for this strip of skin is the frenulum. With tongue-tie, an unusually short, thick or tight band of tissue (lingual frenulum) tethers the bottom of the tongue's tip to the floor of the mouth. A tongue tie can affect the normal range of motion of the tongue, potentially causing difficulties in activities such as speaking, eating, nasal breathing and breastfeeding.

In some cases, a tongue tie may not cause any noticeable problems, while in others, it can lead to issues with speech development, deep restorative sleep or difficulty in breastfeeding. The severity of the condition varies, and the decision to treat a tongue tie depends on the individual's symptoms and their impact on daily activities.

Treatment for tongue tie may involve a simple surgical procedure called a frenectomy, where the frenulum is cut to release the restriction and allow for improved tongue movement. This procedure is typically quick and relatively straightforward. However, the decision to perform a frenotomy is made based on a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, or myofunctional therapist, and  depending on the specific circumstances.

Question 6

What symptoms could a tongue tie cause?

Accepted Answer

Some common symptoms of a tongue tie could include:
For an infant - Breastfeeding issues such as trouble latching when feeding, slow feeder, painful feedings for Mom, failure to thrive
Older child - messy eater, lip smaking when eating, gaggy, trouble with textures, trouble with speech (certain sounds), stuttering, trouble sleeping, snoring, hyperactivity
Teens/ Adults - poor sleep quality, mouthbreathing, snoring, TMJ issues, speech concerns, stomach issues

Question 7

Why is mouth breathing detrimental to your health?

Accepted Answer

Here are a number of reasons how mouth breathing can effect your health,  or your child's health:

Sleep Disruptions: Mouth breathing can be a contributing factor to sleep-related issues such as snoring and sleep apnea. When you breath through your mouth, allergens and toxins are not filtered by your nose and irritate/inflame your tonsils and adenoids. This can block the airway and lead to SBD, and/or sleep apnea. Nasal breathing is generally more efficient and quieter during sleep.
Orthodontic Problems: Prolonged mouth breathing, especially during childhood, can lead to orthodontic issues such as malocclusion (misalignment of teeth) and facial deformities. It may affect the development of the jaw and result in a  high narrow palate and long, narrow face.
Reduced Oxygen Intake: Breathing through the nose allows the air to be filtered, humidified, and warmed before reaching the lungs. Mouth breathing may lead to a decreased intake of oxygen, as the nose performs these important functions.
Poor Oxygen Exchange: The nasal passages contain nitric oxide, which helps dilate blood vessels and improve oxygen uptake in the lungs. Mouth breathing may lead to less effective oxygen exchange in the respiratory system. People who nasal breath have 20% more oxygen in their blood vs. mouth breathers.
Postural Changes: Mouth breathing can influence head and neck posture, potentially leading to musculoskeletal imbalances, neck and shoulder pain and tension.
Dry Mouth: Breathing through the mouth can lead to reduced saliva production, resulting in a dry mouth. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by helping to neutralize acids, fight bacteria, and prevent tooth decay.
Speech Development Impairment: In children, chronic mouth breathing may impact speech development and articulation. It can affect the position of the tongue and impact the correct formation of sounds.
Dental Issues: Chronic mouth breathing can contribute to dental problems such as gingivitis, cavities, and bad breath. The lack of saliva and the altered oral environment may promote the growth of harmful bacteria.
Increased Risk of Infections: The nose acts as a natural filter, trapping particles and bacteria in the air before they reach the lungs. Breathing through the mouth bypasses this filtration system, increasing the risk of respiratory infections.

Question 8

How long does Myofunctional Therapy take?

Accepted Answer

The duration of myofunctional therapy can vary widely depending on various factors such as the individual's specific needs, the severity of the issues being addressed, and the consistency of therapy. Myofunctional therapy is a program of exercises and techniques designed to improve the function and strength of the muscles involved in breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speaking.

Typically, myofunctional therapy may involve regular sessions with a trained therapist, along with daily exercises to be done at home. The duration of therapy usually can range from a few weeks to several months. It's important to note that progress can vary from person to person, and success often depends on the individual's commitment to the exercises and the guidance provided by the therapist.

It's recommended to consult with a qualified myofunctional therapist to assess your specific needs and determine an appropriate treatment plan, including the expected duration of therapy. They can provide more personalized information based on your unique situation.

Question 9

Why is myofunctional therapy recommended before and after a frenectomy (tongue tie release)?

Accepted Answer

Myofunctional therapy is often recommended before and after a frenectomy to optimize the outcomes of the procedure and address underlying issues related to oral function and muscle balance. Here are the reasons why myofunctional therapy is beneficial in conjunction with frenectomy:

Before Frenectomy:

1.Assessment and Preparation:

Myofunctional therapy helps assess the patient's oral function, including tongue and lip movements, swallowing patterns, and overall muscle function.
Identifying dysfunctional oral habits or muscle imbalances before the frenectomy allows for targeted preoperative intervention.

2.Muscle Training:

Preoperative myofunctional exercises can help strengthen or retrain oral muscles, improving muscle tone and function.
Enhanced muscle function before the procedure may contribute to better surgical outcomes and facilitate postoperative recovery.

3.Habit Correction:

Myofunctional therapists can work with patients to correct harmful oral habits, such as tongue thrusting or incorrect swallowing patterns, which may have contributed to the need for the frenectomy.

After Frenectomy:

1. Optimizing Healing:

Myofunctional therapy post-frenectomy is designed to support the healing process by promoting proper oral muscle function and preventing the reoccurrence of dysfunctional habits.

2. Preventing Scar Tissue Formation:

Therapeutic exercises can help prevent the formation of excessive scar tissue after the frenectomy, minimizing the risk of complications and ensuring a more comfortable recovery.

3. Functional Integration:

After the procedure, myofunctional therapy aids in the integration of proper tongue and lip movements into everyday activities like speaking and swallowing, promoting a healthier oral environment.

4. Enhancing Speech and Function:

Continued therapy can contribute to improved speech articulation and overall oral function, addressing any residual issues and promoting long-term oral health.

In summary, myofunctional therapy plays a crucial role in addressing oral function and muscle balance both before and after a frenectomy. It helps prepare the patient for the procedure, optimize surgical outcomes, and support postoperative recovery by addressing underlying muscle imbalances and promoting proper oral habits. Always consult with a healthcare professional or a myofunctional therapist for personalized advice based on individual circumstances.

Question 10

Is therapy done in person or virtually?

Accepted Answer

Therapy services are available both in person and virtually.

We are pleased to offer virtual therapy sessions in addition to in-person care, providing greater flexibility and convenience when scheduling appointments. Virtual sessions allow you to participate in therapy from the comfort of your own space, reducing travel time and making it easier to find appointment times that fit your schedule.

While many therapy sessions may be conducted virtually, we believe that personal connection and thorough evaluation are essential components of quality care. For this reason, the initial assessment and final evaluation are required to be completed in person at our office. These sessions take place in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment.
This blended approach—combining the convenience of virtual therapy with the personalized nature of in-person evaluations—allows us to deliver high-quality care while respecting your time and individual preferences. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to well-being.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. Thank you for choosing us as your trusted health care provider.

Question 11

Is Myofunctional Therapy covered by my health/dental insurance benefits?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the type of coverage you have and what is covered within your insurance plan.
Since I am a Registered Dental Hygienist, the claim is submitted through dental insurance.
If you have a health spending account, several clients have been successful claiming myofunctional therapy under this coverage.
More and more  insurance companies are  including myofunctional therapy as part of coverage. 
If in doubt, you can call as ask your insurance company directly, or if you come in for a Myofunctional Assessment and it is determined that therapy could help you, I will provide you with a dental claim form for a pre-determination of coverage for the myofunctional therapy program.

Question 12

Do you direct bill to insurance?

Accepted Answer

I do not direct bill, but will provide you with a dental claim/insurance claim form that you can upload to your benefits or mail in to the insurance company for reimbursement of fees. Payment is due on date of service.

Frequently asked questions