Myofunctional Therapy
Who Is This For?
All Ages
What is it?
Myofunctional therapy is a type of therapy designed to address disorders of the muscles and functions of the face and mouth. It focuses on correcting improper oral habits that can cause various issues such as :
Increased hyperactivity
Poor attention skills
History of braces or the need for braces
Speech/language delays.
Academics are a challenge.
Breathing issues
Reflux
Increased anxiety and aggression
Poor executive functioning skills
Common signs and symptoms of myofunctional delays:
Open and dry lips
Full lower lip
Tired looking eyes
Snoring
Restless sleepers
Misaligned teeth
Low muscle tone in the face
Chronic allergies and other respiratory issues.
Poor posture
Drooling
Large tonsils
Halitosis
Myofunctional therapy is especially helpful for individuals with tongue thrust, open bite, or improper swallowing patterns. This therapy involves exercises and techniques that can help retrain and strengthen the muscles of the mouth and face to promote optimal breathing, speaking, and swallowing. If you're searching for an experienced myofunctional therapist, look no further! We have the most experienced therapists in Hawaii with over 20 years of experience. Our team of qualified professionals specializes in myofunctional therapy and can help you overcome any issues related to soft tissue muscle dysfunction. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment and take the first step towards optimal oral health.
Why Seek Therapy?
People with muscular and structural differences can lead to challenges with airway function which can interfere with learning and academics, speech/language skills, socialization, self-regulation, and behavioral and emotional health. It can place people at higher risk for neuromotor developmental delays, sensory processing deficiencies, orofacial anomalies including tongue ties (ankyloglossia), anxiety, and depression. Orofacial myofunctional disorders are all within our scope of practice (http://on.asha.org/SLP-scope). With our expertise in understanding the relationship between the orofacial complex and its functions, we are well trained to work as part of an interdisciplinary team to identify, manage, and help prevent disorders related to airway dysfunction.
Over 20 years experience as a certified orofacial myologist with the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM)
25-50% of preschoolers have sleep problems (Lavigne et al., 1999)
Sleep disorders can impair children’s IQ as much as lead exposure (Bronson & Merryman, 2009 p.33)
A history of sleep-disordered breathing increased the odds of a child having a special education need by 40%. Karen Bonuck PhD Researcher at Albert Einstein College
*Telepractice Options are Available
Therapies We Address:
Oral Motor Exercises to Improve Jaw, Lip and Tongue Functions Related to Eating, Breathing, and Resting Postures
Customized Treatment Plans Targeting the Soft Tissues that Impact Form and Function of the Face and Neck.
Feeding Support for All Ages
Treatment for Anyone with Upper Airway Obstruction (Allergies, Large Tonsils/Adenoids, Deviated Septum)
Support for Oral Habits (Thumb Sucking, Pacifier Use, Bottle Use)
Pre and Post Operative Care for Tongue Ties and Other Oral Tethers
