Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is similar to physical therapy but for the face and mouth – specifically the tongue, cheeks, and lips. We teach a series of customized exercises over a period of time to help promote proper tongue and lip posture, nasal breathing, and a correct swallowing pattern. All of these functions can have a direct effect on the airway and on individual & overall health. It is a known fact that form follows function. With the presence of orofacial dysfunction, there is a direct effect on jaw development, teeth alignment, and palate shape which can have a significant impact on the way we breathe. Not only do we see changes to the internal structures, but dysfunction could also result in changes to the external, physical appearance of an individual.
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) are characterized by the dysfunction of the facial
and oral muscles. OMDs may directly and/or indirectly affect facial skeletal growth and
development, chewing, swallowing, speech, occlusion, temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
movement, oral hygiene, stability of orthodontic treatment, facial esthetics, and more.
