What is an Orofacial Myofunctional Disorder?

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders or OMDs

Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) refer to abnormal patterns involving the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat that interfere with normal functions such as breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speaking.

These disorders often result from improper oral habits (like thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use), tongue-tie (ankyloglossia), airway issues (such as chronic mouth breathing due to allergies or enlarged tonsils), or structural imbalances in the jaw and facial muscles.

Common OMDs include tongue thrust (an improper swallowing pattern where the tongue pushes forward against or between the teeth), open-mouth posture, and difficulty achieving proper lip and tongue positioning at rest.

OMDs can contribute to dental misalignment, speech challenges, sleep-disordered breathing, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Early identification and intervention through orofacial myofunctional therapy can not only help retrain the muscles to function optimally, improving overall oral health and wellness but early intervention is especially crucial during childhood when the facial bones are still developing.

Could you benefit from Myofunctional Therapy?

Common Signs and Symptoms

Mouth breathing (day or night)
Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
Poor sleep quality, restlessness, or daytime fatigue
Teeth grinding or clenching
Jaw pain, facial pain, or headaches
Tongue thrust or tongue resting against or between the teeth
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Speech concerns (lisps, unclear articulation)
Chronic nasal congestion or allergies
Enlarged tonsils or adenoids

Dental & Orthodontic Concerns

Crowded or crooked teeth
Open bite, overbite, or underbite
Relapse after orthodontic treatment
Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use
Difficulty tolerating orthodontic appliances

Airway & Sleep-Related Concerns

Pediatric sleep-disordered breathing
Suspected or diagnosed sleep apnea
Bedwetting, night waking, or behavioral concerns in children
ADHD-like symptoms linked to poor sleep quality

Facial Growth & Development (Children)

Long, narrow face or recessed jaws
Low tongue posture
Poor lip seal
Delayed or altered oral development

Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy

Myofunctional Therapy can help by:

Training proper tongue posture and function
Establishing nasal breathing patterns for better oxygen intake and overall health.
Improving swallowing and chewing mechanics
Supporting healthy facial growth and airway development which may help with snoring or mild sleep apnea.
Enhancing orthodontic stability and outcomes
Improving sleep quality and overall wellness
Reducing strain on the jaw joint by improving muscle coordination.
Increased energy and alertness
Reduced clenching/grinding
Increasing tone and mobility of oral structures
Establishing symmetry to the face