“Orofacial myology therapy” might sound like a complicated concept, but the basic idea behind it is pretty simple. Essentially, it can help your mouth and nearby structures to function at their best! But who is a candidate for orofacial myology therapy? Could it benefit you or someone in your family? This blog post contains some important information that can guide you on your next steps.
What Is Orofacial Myology Therapy?
Orofacial myology therapy commonly goes by a number of different names. You might hear it referred to as myofunctional therapy, orofacial myology, and several similar names. Regardless of the title attached to it, though, all such terms refer to the same type of treatment.
Essentially, orofacial myology therapy is physical therapy for the head and neck. It promotes good posture, proper jaw positioning, proper tongue positioning, good swallowing habits, good breathing habits, and more. It should always be overseen by a certified myofunctional therapist.
Who Can Benefit from Orofacial Myology Therapy?
Orofacial myology therapy can be used to help patients of virtually any age. Here are some signs and symptoms that indicate it might be able to benefit you:
- You usually breathe through your mouth or struggle to breathe through your nose.
- You suffer from sleep disordered breathing.
- It is difficult for you to close your lips when you swallow.
- You received treatment for a tongue tie or lip tie.
- You had prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier-sucking habits when you were young.
- You have a misaligned bite, such as an overbite or underbite.
Often, orofacial myology therapy is used as a complement for other treatments. For example, it may be performed both before and after a frenectomy to treat a tongue or lip tie. It might also be used before or after orthodontic treatment in patients who have a significantly misaligned bite.
What to Expect with Orofacial Myology Therapy
Orofacial myology therapy is not painful, but you may be asked to perform some challenging exercises that could cause some soreness. In addition to performing exercises during your therapy sessions, you will also be required to do some exercises at home. As long as you diligently comply with your treatment, you should notice gradual improvements in the way your oral structures function.
Orofacial myology therapy is a remarkable treatment that can allow you to enjoy a healthy body and a healthy smile! A qualified dentist or another medical professional can help you determine if it is right for you.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Andrea Csok is an experienced dentist who uses advanced laser technology to treat cases of lip and tongue tie. She often refers patients to a local myofunctional therapist to help them derive the greatest possible benefits from their frenectomy. If you believe that you or your child could benefit from orofacial myology therapy, contact our the Cleveland Tongue Tie Center at 216-292-3600.