Myofunctional Therapy Overview

Myofunctional Therapy Overview

Table of Contents

What is Myofunctional Therapy?

Myofunctional therapy is a specialized form of therapy focused on improving oral-facial muscle function. It addresses abnormal oral habits and enhances the overall health of the mouth, jaw, and facial muscles. This therapy is effective in treating a range of issues, including:

  • Tongue thrust: When the tongue pushes against the teeth during swallowing or resting.
  • Mouth breathing: Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose.
  • Lip incompetence: Difficulty keeping the lips fully closed.
  • Sleep-disordered breathing: Conditions such as sleep apnea and snoring.
  • TMJ dysfunction: Pain or discomfort in the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint).

Why is Myofunctional Therapy Important?

Myofunctional therapy has a broad impact on oral health and overall well-being. Here’s how it helps:

  • Improved facial aesthetics: Correcting tongue thrust and mouth breathing can result in a more balanced facial profile.
  • Correcting abnormal oral habits: Habits like tongue thrusting can lead to dental problems such as misaligned teeth and jaw pain.
  • Improved breathing: Therapy can enhance nasal breathing and improve respiratory function by addressing mouth breathing.
  • Managing sleep-disordered breathing: It can reduce symptoms of sleep apnea and snoring, leading to better sleep quality.
  • Reduced jaw pain: By treating TMJ dysfunction, therapy can relieve jaw discomfort and pain.

Scope of the Profession

Certified myofunctional therapists are healthcare professionals with specialized training in oral-facial muscle function. They diagnose and treat various myofunctional disorders, and commonly have backgrounds in dentistry, speech-language pathology, or related fields.

Lack of an Overseeing Governing Body

Currently, myofunctional therapy does not have a single governing body in the United States. While organizations like the International Association of Myofunctional Therapists (IAMT) provide support and guidance, this lack of regulation leads to variations in training and quality of care.

Prerequisites for Becoming a Myofunctional Therapist

To become a myofunctional therapist, the path typically involves:

  • Earning a dental degree (RDH or DDS/DMD) or speech-language pathology degree.
  • Completing specialized training in myofunctional therapy.
  • Obtaining certification from a recognized organization, which may have its own requirements.

Information for Patients

If you’re considering myofunctional therapy, here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Consult a qualified professional: Always seek advice from a certified dentist, orthodontist, or speech-language pathologist with myofunctional therapy training.
  • Understand the process: Treatment usually involves consistent sessions over an extended period to see results.
  • Be patient: Results can take time, but staying consistent with therapy is crucial.
  • Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your therapist about the treatment plan, what to expect, and any risks or benefits.