Both Adults and Children Can Benefit from Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy

Orofacial myofunctional disorders describe conditions that cause people to have weak muscles in their mouth, throat, and/or face. Infants may struggle to breastfeed properly, while people of all ages may have trouble breathing, speaking, chewing, and swallowing.

Symptoms of Orofacial Disorders

Breathing primarily through the mouth, tongue ties, lip ties, tongue thrust, and overbites or underbites are some of the most common orofacial disorders. However, it can be difficult for people to recognize these disorders, especially children. Below are several symptoms that indicate you or your child could benefit from orofacial myofunctional therapy.

• Dry lips and/or frequently licking the lips
• Frequent choking or gagging
• Lips remain apart while resting
• Lisping and/or other speech issues
• Previous diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Problems falling asleep or staying asleep
• Sucking on thumbs or fingers
• Using a pacifier past 12 months of age

Dr. Jim Allen and Dr. Mark Mueller offer patients with these disordersorofacial myofunctional therapy in West Salem, WI, which has proven extremely effective. The primary goals of orofacial myofunctional therapy include correcting tongue position, swallowing patterns, nasal breathing, and creating an appropriate lip seal.

How Does Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy Work

Dr. Allen or Dr. Mueller assign simple in-office exercises to improve the strength, positioning, and coordination of the face, mouth, and throat. The muscles in each of these areas must work together for proper functioning.

The earlier children receive intervention, the more likely they are to achieve normal dental and craniofacial growth. Although children tend to make faster progress because their jaws do not stop developing until the late teens, adults who never received help for orofacial issues can make considerable progress with our program.

Are you interested in learning more about orofacialmyofunctional therapy in West Salem, WI? Please contact Allen Dental to request a consultation.