Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
Heal the muscles of your mouth, face & neck — for better breathing, chewing, swallowing and speaking.
What is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy?
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a specialised therapeutic approach that works to retrain and strengthen the muscles of the mouth, face and neck. These muscles support essential functions like breathing, chewing, swallowing and speaking.
When the patterns of muscle use are not optimal (for example: tongue resting at the wrong place, mouth-breathing, abnormal swallow patterns), we refer to them as orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs). OMT helps correct those patterns, restoring better function, form and comfort.
Who benefits from OMT?
OMT can be benefical for both children and adults with:
Chronic mouth breathing
Snoring
Tongue thrust
Orthodontic relapse
Speech difficulties
Tongue tie and/or lip tie history
TMJ dysfunction or jaw pain
Teeth grinding
Poor oral habits - thumb sucking or nail biting
Sleep related breathing disorders, including sleep apnea
The Importance of Myofunctional Therapy
Enhanced Breathing
Promotes better nasal breathing for overall health and well-being.
Correct Tongue Position
Supports proper tongue posture, aiding in dental alignment and function.
Efficient Swallowing
Enhances swallowing mechanics, reducing the risk of choking.
Better Sleep Quality
Improves sleep patterns and airway function for healthier rest.
What to expect in a session
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1. Initial assessment: We’ll look at your or your child’s orofacial muscle patterns, tongue & lip posture, swallow pattern, breathing, facial/neck muscle tone and habits (like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrust).
- 2. Personalised plan: Based on the assessment we’ll set functional goals (e.g., improve tongue rest posture, reduce mouth-breathing, strengthen cheek muscles) and design a series of exercises & habit-modification strategies.
- 3. Therapy sessions: During OMT sessions you’ll be guided through targeted muscle exercises, manual techniques (if needed), breathing practice, and habit coaching (posture, rest position, etc).
- 4. Home practice & habit support: Most change happens between sessions when the exercises/habits are consistently done at home. We’ll give you clear home practice instructions and support.
- 5. Progress monitoring: We’ll track your progress through measurable changes (e.g., tongue posture, breathing pattern, swallowing quality) and adjust the plan as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
A: That depends on your individual presentation (age, severity of orofacial myofunctional dysfunction (OMD), consistency of home practice). Some clients see significant improvement in 6-10 sessions, otheres may benefit from longer programs and follow-up.
Q: IS TREATMENT PAINFUL?
A: No – OMT isn’t about forceful drills. It’s about gentle retraining, posture, habits, and muscle coordination. If manual techniques are used, we always work within your comfort zone.
Q: WILL MY DENTIST / ORTHODONTIST SUPPORT THIS?
A: Yes — often OMT programs complement orthodontic or airway treatments. We’re happy to collaborate with your dental or medical team when needed.
Q: DO I NEED SOMETHING SPECIAL TO PRACTICE AT HOME?
A: A Myofunctional Therapy Kit is provided with all the tools you’ll need to complete your home exercises. If additional tools are recommended outside of the provided kit, these will be discussed during your assessment.
Ready to get started?
We’d love to help you or your child begin the journey toward better orofacial function, healthier breathing and stronger muscle patterns.
