The mouth is an essential component that must work correctly if a person is to speak clearly and eat effectively. The coordination and movement of the tongue, lips, and other facial muscles need to work properly, so when difficulties arise, it can make daily life much more difficult. But what is the difference between speech therapy and orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT)? To find out which type of treatment you or your child needs, read on to hear from a dentist who will explain.
How Does Speech Therapy Work?
Focusing more on various challenges associated with speech and language, a specialist (speech language pathologist or SLP) will address everything from lisps and stutters to autism spectrum disorders and other similar language-based disabilities.
Using an array of therapies, including physical, mental, and comprehension, help to improve communication.
Common speech therapy practices include:
- Talking and playing (for children) to encourage language development
- Teaching children how to mimic sounds
- Offering ways to incorporate techniques at home
- Breathing exercises (for adults)
- Tips to improve conversation among others
- Problem-solving
How Does Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Work?
Orofacial Myofunctional (Myology) Therapy focuses more on treating the issues that prevent normal speech development (i.e., genetics, thumb-sucking, orthodontic problems, obstructed nasal passages, neurological disorders, etc.). The tongue and facial muscles can be the reason certain sounds cannot be formed, and they can also contribute to a person’s inability to swallow effectively.
An orofacial myologist can determine if the tongue is unable to move the way it should so that the mouth remains at rest in the correct position (tongue tip behind teeth). They also identify if tongue thrust is the problem that makes swallowing more challenging. If facial and oral muscles do not function properly, it can lead to an incorrect bite (overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite).
Some useful techniques used as part of OMT include:
- Eliminating unhealthy habits that are known to cause bite misalignments and improper muscle movement
- Practicing holding the tongue behind the teeth in a proper resting position
- Using certain tools to encourage tongue and muscle strengthening so that swallowing becomes easier
What are the Benefits of OMT?
By choosing to see an orofacial myologist, you will find that there are many unique benefits that not only make living life much easier but also ensure greater confidence on a daily basis.
You can expect:
- An easier experience in moving your tongue, lips, and cheek muscles
- Better breathing, swallowing, and chewing
- Greater facial symmetry
- Straighter teeth
- More energy
- More focused thinking and a positive attitude
This highly effective method of treatment will help to expand your ability to live life to the fullest. Instead of continuing to experience defeat, rest assured that seeing a qualified orofacial myologist will give you the best chance of improving your mouth’s movement over time.
About the Author
Dr. Andrea Csok is a dentist who works closely with certified myofunctional therapists who are skilled in treating patients who need help to strengthen their tongue and nearby facial muscles. When difficulty occurs with eating or speaking, she and her team can recommend appropriate treatment that will improve function as well as oral and overall health. Visit our website or call (216) 292-3600 to learn how we can help.