Green Hills Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy in the Lehigh Valley!
In our continued effort to provide comprehensive care we are proud to offer specialized therapy aimed at preventing and treating muscular imbalances that cause improper growth and development. The teeth, tongue, and jaw joints are part of a complex system that allows one to function properly and breathe freely. Simply put, face growth is heavily influenced by the tongue. If the tongue is not resting and moving as intended, the form of the skull changes and function is altered.
Ashley started practicing hygiene in 2008. Throughout her career she has felt fortunate to have worked for a dentist that practices comprehensive care. In doing so it fostered an environment of curiosity and an eagerness to learn more. She began the study of Orofacial Myology in 2020 and is certified to practice OMT through the International Association of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy. She feels her mentors encouraged her to think critically about the treatment she offers her patients, to think about the body, as-a-whole and treat patients with compassion and kindness.
What is Orofacial Myofunctional?
Orofacial Myology is the study of the muscles that make up the face and oral structures and how they form and function together. These muscles allow us to breathe, eat, swallow, speak, and express emotion.
When the muscles of the orofacial complex compensate due to a variety of problems, changes in structure and function occur. This leads to issues that interfere with normal growth, development, and function. These issues are considered to be Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (ODMs):
- Mouth Breathing
- Tongue Thrust
- TMJ Issues
- Tethered oral tissues (ex. Tongue Tied)
- Incorrect tongue posture & swallowing patterns
- Unhealthy habits such as digit sucking, tongue/cheek biting, and nail-biting.
Goals of Myofunctional Therapy
- Establish Nasal breathing
- Implement Correct Oral Rest Posture
- Differentiate tongue movement from jaw movement
- Correct Chewing and swallowing patterns
- Habituate proper habits through neuromuscular training.
Customized treatment plans are created for each patient, with individual exercises to target specific OMDs the patient presents with.
Treating OMDs require a Collaborative Approach
While Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy aids in correcting OMDs, we need a collaborative approach. Providers that may possibly be involved in treatment include:
Dentists – who specialize in Occlusion Disorders to address TMJ and/or have special training to release tethered oral tissues
Ear Nose and Throat Doctors – to address airway concerns.
Orthodontists – who practice airway dentistry along with Phase I and II treatments. Orthodontists who are involved in this process may benefit from seeing the long-term success of Post Orthodontic Treatment
Other Practitioners – Speech/Language Pathologists, Allergists, Bodyworkers such as: Physical Therapists, Massage Therapists, and Cranial Sacral Therapists.
If you think you suffer from any of the Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders listed above or wish to be evaluated, give our office a call to set up a consultation. Ashley would love to work with you on your airway health journey.