Orthodontics
Myofunctional Therapy
Supporting Oatley’s oral posture through targeted muscle training
The muscles of the face, lips, tongue, and jaw work together every day when we breathe, chew, swallow, and speak. When these muscles aren’t working together effectively, they may contribute to oral habits and developmental concerns that can affect how the teeth and jaws develop.
At CFS Dental, myofunctional therapy may be recommended as part of an individualised treatment plan for children and, in some cases, adults. Following a comprehensive assessment, we’ll determine whether myofunctional therapy is appropriate for your individual needs and explain how it may complement your orthodontic care.
What is myofunctional therapy?
Myofunctional therapy, also known as orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT), is a personalised programme of exercises designed to improve the way the muscles of the mouth and face work together. These exercises focus on strengthening the muscles and encouraging healthy movement patterns that support breathing, swallowing, chewing, and oral function.
Rather than moving teeth directly, myofunctional therapy aims to address the underlying muscle habits that may contribute to the development of orthodontic concerns. Depending on your individual circumstances, it may form part of a broader orthodontic treatment plan.
When might myofunctional therapy® be recommended?
Following a comprehensive assessment, myofunctional therapy may be recommended if there are signs of:
- Mouth breathing
- Incorrect tongue resting position or tongue thrust
- Incorrect swallowing patterns
- Open mouth posture
- Clenching or grinding of the teeth (bruxism)
- Developing oral habits that may influence jaw or dental development
We’ll assess your individual needs and determine whether myofunctional therapy may be appropriate as part of your overall treatment plan.
How does myofunctional therapy work?
Every treatment plan is tailored to the individual.
Myofunctional therapy involves a series of guided exercises designed to improve muscle strength, coordination and awareness. Depending on your needs, these exercises may focus on breathing, tongue position, lip function, and swallowing patterns.
Your clinician will demonstrate the exercises, explain how to perform them correctly and monitor your progress during regular review appointments. Some exercises are completed during appointments, while others are practised at home as part of your treatment programme.
How myofunctional therapy may support orthodontic treatment?
Healthy muscle function plays an important role in long-term oral development. Depending on your individual circumstances, myofunctional therapy may help:
- Encourage healthy nasal breathing
- Support correct tongue resting position
- Improve swallowing patterns
- Promote healthy lip posture
- Support the goals of orthodontic treatment
- Encourage healthy oral habits that contribute to long-term oral health
Not every patient requires myofunctional therapy. We’ll only recommend treatment where it’s appropriate following a comprehensive assessment.
Commitment is an important part of treatment
Like any exercise programme, successful myofunctional therapy relies on consistency.
We’ll provide personalised guidance, demonstrate each exercise, and review your progress throughout treatment. Completing the recommended exercises at home and attending your scheduled review appointments are important parts of achieving the best possible outcome for your individual circumstances.
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Who can benefit from myofunctional therapy?
Myofunctional therapy may be suitable for school-aged children, adolescents and adults, depending on their individual needs. Following an assessment, we’ll discuss whether it’s an appropriate option for you or your child.
Is myofunctional therapy the same as orthodontic treatment?
How long does treatment usually take?
Will I need to practise exercises at home?
Supporting healthy development
for the future
Healthy oral function is about more than straight teeth. By encouraging healthy breathing, swallowing and muscle function, myofunctional therapy may support long-term oral development and complement orthodontic treatment where appropriate.
If you’d like to learn whether myofunctional therapy may be suitable for you or your child, our team is here to help.